sevendayweekender –Marcus Rashford is closing in on a move to Barcelona, marking a dramatic shift in his career. Once a core figure at Manchester United, Rashford has become surplus to requirements under manager Ruben Amorim. The 27-year-old forward has not played for United since December 15, when he was dropped for the Manchester derby.
Amorim later publicly criticized Rashford’s attitude and effort in training. The manager claimed he would rather use his 63-year-old goalkeeping coach than a player who “doesn’t give the maximum every day.” This strong statement underlined a complete breakdown in their professional relationship.In January, Rashford joined Aston Villa on loan. He made 17 appearances, scored key goals, and earned a recall to the England squad. His performances were inconsistent, however, showing glimpses of past brilliance alongside quieter games. Despite that, interest in his services remained high.
Barcelona emerged as the strongest suitor, driven by both sporting need and player desire. Rashford had already expressed a wish to play alongside rising star Lamine Yamal. Just last month, he reportedly told close friends of his admiration for the teenage winger and his ambition to play in Spain. Barcelona sporting director Deco confirmed in May that they were tracking Rashford. He stated the club “liked” him and believed he could “improve the team.” Now, a deal in principle has been reached, bringing the move closer to reality.
A Long Goodbye at Manchester United
Rashford’s fall from grace at United was neither sudden nor surprising. Behind the scenes, tensions had been building for months. The manager’s December comments were only the public tip of a deeper disconnect. After returning from his loan spell at Aston Villa, Rashford found himself training away from the main squad. He was one of five players who had informed the club of their desire to leave. In response, United isolated them from first-team activities to maintain dressing-room harmony.
This approach signaled a new era at Old Trafford, where underperforming or disengaged stars would not be tolerated. Rashford’s case highlighted that shift in policy. Still, selling a player of his profile to Barcelona remains a rare and unusual move for a club of United’s stature. Yet, the club sees this as an opportunity. Rashford is no longer part of Amorim’s plans, and freeing up wages and space in the squad takes priority. The focus is now on building a side that fits the manager’s style and intensity.
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Rashford prepares for a fresh start in La Liga, while both clubs focus on the future. Barcelona makes a calculated bet on a talented player ready for revival. Manchester United uses this opportunity to close a chapter and rebuild with fully committed players. The clubs expect to finalize the deal soon, which will end Rashford’s nine-year first-team journey at United and start his new challenge in Catalonia.
