Marcus Rashford’s Manchester United future receives major boost from Michael Carrick

Marcus Rashford has been handed renewed hope of remaining a Manchester United player, after head coach, Michael Carrick suggested the forward is firmly part of his plans for the upcoming campaign, which kicks off next weekend. 

Rashford spent the 2024/25 season on loan at Spanish giants, Barcelona, where he played an integral role as Hansi Flick’s side retained the La Liga title.

The England international made 49 appearances across all competitions last term, contributing 14 goals and 14 assists during a prosperous spell at the Catalan club.

Rashford receives renewed backing from Carrick

While rumours linked the forward to a return to the Camp Nou, Blaugrana’s signing of compatriot Anthony Gordon seemingly quashed any chance of a permanent move.

However, his future at Old Trafford had appeared increasingly uncertain after he fell out of favour under several managers, most recently Ruben Amorim.

Rashford has not played a competitive game for United since December 2024, having initially spent the second half of the 2024/25 season on loan at Aston Villa.

With doubt lingering over his future at his boyhood club, Carrick’s latest comments appear to have done a lot to disregard any speculation.

Speaking to ITV, Carrick was asked about Rashford’s return and offered a positive assessment of the forward.

“He’s our player. He’s come back great. He’s just like any other player,” Carrick said.

The United boss added: “I’ve known him a long time and he gives us something a little bit different. We’re looking forward to the start of the season.”

Carrick makes decision on Dorgu’s position

Carrick was also questioned about another United player whose position has previously been the subject of debate — Patrick Dorgu.

The manager was asked last season whether he viewed Dorgu as a defender or a forward, but at the time he said he didn’t want to “pigeonhole” the versatile player.

Pre-season appears to have provided a clearer answer.

Dorgu started on the left wing during United’s friendly against Leeds at Croke Park on Wednesday, continuing a run of appearances in an attacking role under Carrick.

The 21-year-old missed part of last season because of injury but, when available under Carrick in the Premier League, was primarily deployed on the wing.

His continued use in an attacking position suggests Carrick now sees Dorgu primarily as a forward rather than a traditional defender.

United will begin their new Premier League campaign away to newly promoted Hull City next Saturday, with Rashford back available for selection.