Barcelona forward Marcus Rashford says he hopes to extend his stay in Spain beyond his current loan agreement from Manchester United, describing the switch as the rejuvenation he needed after spending his entire football life in England.
The 27-year-old joined Barça last summer on a season-long loan, with the Catalan club covering his wages after he accepted a reduced salary. The deal includes an option to buy worth about €30m ($35m), according to reports from Reuters and ESPN.
Marcus Rashford’s contract at Old Trafford runs until 2028, but his long-term future with United remains uncertain, especially now he is already saying he loves his stay at Barcelona so far. He previously clashed with manager Ruben Amorim and fell out of the first-team picture, prompting the move abroad.
Under Barcelona coach Hansi Flick, the England international has quickly rediscovered both confidence and consistency. He has delivered five goals and six assists in 12 appearances across all competitions, becoming a central figure in the attack.
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Speaking to ESPN, Rashford said the club immediately gave him “a different perspective”. He added “twenty-three years of my life was with Manchester United. Sometimes you just need a change. Maybe that is the case with me, and I am enjoying everything.”
With his first El Clasico ahead this weekend, Marcus Rashford made clear his desire for a permanent future at the Camp Nou.
Asked whether he sees himself staying, he replied “for sure. I am enjoying this football club, and I think for anybody who loves football, Barcelona is one of the key clubs in the history of the game. For a player it is an honour.”
The forward already showed signs of revival during a short loan spell at Aston Villa last season, but his progress has accelerated in Spain as Barça seek to rebuild their squad with a younger core.
Barcelona hold the option to seal a permanent transfer next summer. Manchester United will face a major decision, particularly as the Premier League side manage their own rebuild under Amorim.