MANCHESTER UNITED CONFIRM 25-MAN CHAMPIONS LEAGUE SQUAD

Man United will return to the Champions League this season and they have named their European squad ahead of the competition starting next week.

The 2026/27 Champions League league phase starts next week

Manchester United have named their 25-man Champions League squad as they prepare for their return to the competition.

United kick off their European campaign next week with a home game against Sabah FK. The other seven sides the Reds will face in the league phase of the Champions League are Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid, Roma, Sporting, RB Leipzig, Villarreal and Como.

Teams competing in this season's Champions League had until Wednesday evening to submit their squads. There are a number of high-profile names not included on United's 25-man list, including Kobbie Mainoo and Leny Yoro. However, both will still be eligible to play in the Champions League.

Teams are required to submit an 'A list' of players who can play in the Champions League, which is the list that has now been confirmed.

There is no requirement to include any player on the 'A list' who was born on or after 1 January 2005 and has been eligible to play for the club for two consecutive years since turning 15 (or three years including a loan spell). Any player who falls into this category is added to a 'B list', and this is submitted to UEFA either on or before the day prior to a Champions League match.

The 'A list' that has been submitted to UEFA is now locked in for the league phase of the competition. However, should United reach the knockout rounds, they will have until 4 February 2027 to register a maximum of three new players.

United's 25-man Champions League squad:

Goalkeepers: Karl Darlow, Tom Heaton, Senne Lammens, Dermot Mee

Defenders: Patrick Dorgu, Diogo Dalot, Matthijs de Ligt, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, Noussair Mazraoui, Luke Shaw, Ayden Heaven

Midfielders: Carlos Baleba, Bruno Fernandes, Mason Mount, Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans, Manuel Ugarte

Forwards: Amad, Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Marcus Rashford, Benjamin Sesko, Joshua Zirkzee, Tynan Thompson

- Ross Jackson

FOUR GOALS AND A COMEBACK! AC MILAN DEFEATS MANCHESTER UNITED IN INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY

AC Milan closed out its preseason with a convincing 4-2 victory over Manchester United. The Rossoneri showcased their attacking power and capitalized on their opponent’s defensive mistakes.

AC Milan Completes a Convincing Comeback Against Manchester United

AC Milan closed out its preseason with a 4-2 victory over Manchester United at the Tarczyński Arena in Wroclaw in an international friendly that ultimately left the Italian side with plenty of positive takeaways. The Rossoneri had to respond twice, but ultimately imposed their attacking quality during a second half in which they found space and capitalized on their opponent’s mistakes.

The English side took an early lead through Harry Maguire, who rose to head home Bruno Fernandes’ corner. However, Milan found a response before halftime through Samuel Chukwueze, who received the assist from Gonçalo Ramos.

The equalizer was not the only major moment of the first half. Bruno Fernandes had the chance to restore United’s lead from the penalty spot, but Lorenzo Torriani read the shot correctly and made a decisive save to keep the score at 1-1.

Gonçalo Ramos Turns His Debut Into a Standout Night

The spotlight was firmly on Gonçalo Ramos, and the Portuguese forward lived up to the expectations. The Rossoneri’s new attacker was not limited to contributing to the build-up: he scored his first goal for Milan and was also directly involved in other goals.

After Patrick Dorgu restored Manchester United’s lead early in the second half, Milan responded once again. Alphadjo Cissé brought the game back to 2-2 and, just minutes later, Ramos had his moment.

The Portuguese forward found space inside the box to head home a cross from Samuel Chukwueze, making it 3-2. The play highlighted the connection between the two players throughout the match and gave Milan the lead for the first time.

United’s Defensive Errors Shift the Game

The English side took the lead twice, but could not hold onto either advantage, allowing Milan to find increasingly dangerous spaces.

United’s second goal came through Patrick Dorgu, who capitalized on a poor Milan backpass to make it 2-1. The Italian side responded immediately, and from the 2-2 mark onward, the match began to swing clearly in the Rossoneri’s favor.

Milan’s third goal once again featured Chukwueze, this time providing the assist for Ramos. The Nigerian was one of the most active players for the Italian side and took advantage of the gaps appearing in the English defense.

Shortly afterward, Ruben Loftus-Cheek burst into space on the right and received another service from Ramos before making it 4-2. The goal put the match beyond United’s reach and confirmed Milan’s attacking superiority during the decisive stretch.

Rashford Returns to United, but Milan Take the Positives

The match also featured a special moment for Marcus Rashford, who returned to the Manchester United lineup after a lengthy absence. The forward came on in the second half and showed some promising movement on the wing, although he was unable to change the course of the match.

His return was one of the main talking points for the English side, but the spotlight ultimately belonged to Milan. The Italian team found attacking solutions, capitalized on their opponent’s mistakes and finished the match with four goals against one of Europe’s biggest clubs.

- beiN SPORTS

MARCUS RASHFORD IN TALKS OVER £40M MAN UTD TRANSFER EXIT

Marcus Rashford looks set to leave Manchester United (Picture: Getty)

Marcus Rashford is in talks to complete a permanent transfer away from Manchester United after his dream move to Barcelona fell through.

Rashford, who featured for England at this summer’s World Cup, hoped to earn a permanent move to Barca after a largely impressive loan spell.

The 28-year-old scored 14 goals and provided 10 assists to help Barcelona retain their La Liga title and go deep in the Champions League.

Barca boss Hansi Flick appeared keen for Rashford to stay at the Nou Camp but a deal always looked unlikely after the Spanish champions spent £70m to sign his England teammate Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United.

Rashford is therefore due to return to Old Trafford after a break following his World Cup commitments but Manchester United are not planning to reintegrate him into Michael Carrick’s squad.

As a result Rashford, who is available to sign for £40m for clubs other than Manchester City and Liverpool, is searching for a new club.

According to The Sun, Rashford is in talks with Turkish giants Fenerbahce, who are ready to ‘break the back’ to secure his signature.

Rashford has likely played his last game for Man Utd (Picture: Getty)

Fenerbahce are desperate to reel in rivals Galatasaray next season and believe Rashford can help them do just that.

Rashford is in talks with Fenerbahce after being recommended a move to Arsenal by the likes of Paul Scholes, Rio Ferdinand and David Seaman.

Discussing Arsenal’s reported interest in Rashford during the World Cup, Manchester United legend Ferdinand said: ‘I would take Rashford. For £40m, I’m sweeping Rashford off his feet.’

Rashford wanted to stay at Barcelona (Picture: Getty)

Ex-Old Trafford midfielder Paul Scholes added: ‘That would be a great move, a great move for both parties. I think Arsenal would be a great move for him and the club.’

Mikel Arteta is keen to welcome a new winger to the Emirates Stadium but his current focus is on Real Madrid and Brazil superstar Vinicius Junior.

Meanwhile, Barcelona boss Flick has discussed the club’s decision not to sign Rashford, insisting he will ‘miss’ the England star.

‘You don’t know what happens with players who are on loan – our situation is not easy for that,’ Flick said last week.

- Louis Sealey

MARCUS RASHFORD'S GOAL DISCUSSED | FIFA WORLD CUP 2026

 

MAN UTD SET BARCELONA HARD LINE OVER MARCUS RASHFORD TRANSFER TALKS

 

Marcus Rashford spent last season on loan at Barcelona from Manchester United (Image: Getty

Barcelona's option to sign Marcus Rashford from Manchester United for £26million expired at midnight on Monday, meaning the La Liga giants must now negotiate a fresh fee should they wish to pursue the forward. United have made clear they will not entertain any approach from Barcelona involving another loan arrangement.

Barca wasted little time in securing Anthony Gordon from Newcastle in a £70m deal at the start of the transfer window. The left winger's arrival has had a significant impact on how Rashford's future is likely to unfold this summer.

Rashford is currently on duty with England at the World Cup, though he is expected to report back for United's pre-season following a period of rest after the tournament concludes.

The World Cup final is scheduled for July 19. Even should England go all the way to the final, Rashford would in theory be available in time for United's last pre-season friendly against AC Milan on August 15

While United are prepared for the possibility of Rashford returning for pre-season training, it is understood the club's preferred outcome would be to agree a permanent transfer fee before the summer window closes.

He has two years remaining on his £325,000 per week United contract, which he signed in the summer of 2023 following a 30-goal campaign.

Bayern Munich have also been weighing up a move for Rashford after missing out on Gordon, who opted for Barcelona instead. Harry Kane, Eric Dier, Michael Olise and Luis Diaz have all previously made the move from England to the Bundesliga giants.

Rashford chipped in with 14 goals and 14 assists for Barcelona as they won the La Liga title. Michael Carrick, who has both played alongside and managed Rashford, hinted that the door remained open for a return when quizzed about the forward's future two months ago.

Carrick said: "I just think there are decisions to be made in time, really, on certain things, and obviously Marcus is in that situation. But at this point in time, nothing's been decided. And it will be, because it has to be at a certain point, but at this stage, there's nothing to say."

When asked whether it was a case of never closing doors with players, Carrick responded: "Yeah, I'm not going on the Marcus individual one, because I think, like I've already touched on, I think to comment either way at this stage is just not the right thing to do, because there's uncertainties, for sure. 

But for me, as I said, individual players who I'm able to work with in this part of the squad then I enjoy doing that, and trying to get the best out of them."

While Carrick stopped short of ruling out a Rashford return, his comments came at a time when Barcelona were pressuring United into accepting a fee below £26m. Since Ineos assumed control of football operations, trimming the wage bill has been a key objective, making Rashford's departure a priority. His iconic number 10 shirt was handed to Matheus Cunha last year.

- Steven Railston & Mark Wakefield

MARCUS RASHFORD SET FOR MAN UTD RETURN AS PERMANENT

Getty

Marcus Rashford's long-term future has been plunged into fresh doubt following reports that Barcelona have allowed a crucial transfer deadline to pass. The England forward, who has spent the campaign on loan at Camp Nou, now faces the prospect of an unexpected return to Manchester United this summer.

Barcelona miss crucial transfer deadline

Barcelona have failed to activate the purchase option in Rashford’s loan agreement, meaning they no longer have the unilateral right to sign the forward for a fixed fee. The Catalan giants had until March 31 to inform Manchester United of their intent to trigger the €30 million (£26m/$35m) clause, but that date has passed without any official move from the La Liga leaders, according to Cadena SER.

The situation leaves the 28-year-old in a state of limbo after what appeared to be a successful rehabilitation of his career in Spain. While sporting director Deco had previously confirmed the existence of the buy option, his failure to act before the deadline suggests that economic pressures at the club are once again dictating their transfer strategy. The report suggests Barcelona are interested in a second loan deal, but United have little interest in such an arrangement, preferring a clean break and a permanent sale this summer.

Getty

Financial fair play hurdles

Despite Rashford establishing himself as a regular under Flick, the deal has been complicated by La Liga's strict financial regulations. While the €30m transfer fee was considered manageable, the player's substantial wage demands proved to be the sticking point for a club still navigating significant debt. Deco recently addressed the uncertainty surrounding the move, admitting that the decision involves several complex factors. Speaking on the forward's continuity, he said: "[Rashford staying?] The matter is tied to financial fair play, priorities, performance, and the coach's decision, and it's something we haven't done yet because it's not the right time."

Premier League rivals on high alert

Manchester United are reportedly relaxed about the situation and have no intention of lowering their valuation. If Barca cannot or will not pay the agreed fee, the Red Devils are prepared to entertain offers from Premier League rivals for the academy graduate. There is a growing belief at Old Trafford that the English market could yield a higher price than the €30m figure that was previously on the table in Spain.

Getty Images Sports

Uncertainty as the season concludes

The final weeks of the season will now be pivotal for Rashford as he looks to prove his worth either to a hesitant Barcelona board or potential new employers. His form has dipped recently, failing to record a goal or assist since January.

As it stands, a permanent stay at Camp Nou looks very complicated. Whether that leads to a second chance at United under Michael Carrick or a blockbuster move to a Premier League rival remains to be seen, but the buy option safety net that both the player and club relied on has officially vanished.

- Muhammad Zaki

MANCHESTER UNITED DENY THEY WANT MARCUS RASHFORD RETURN

Manchester United have denied any notion that Michael Carrick or the club want Marcus Rashford back at Old Trafford at the end of the season.

Financially, a return doesn’t make sense - his wages are too high and his contract, which runs until 2028, increases as he approaches 28-years-old.

(Source: @AndyMitten)

MARCUS RASHFORD SPEAKS OUT ON MAN UNITED FUTURE AFTER BARCELONA LOAN

Rashford moved to Barcelona on loan from Manchester United this summer and the LaLiga giants have the option of making the deal permanent next year

Marcus Rashford is enjoying life at his new club (Getty Images)

Marcus Rashford has made it clear he wants to leave Manchester United permanently and stay at Barcelona beyond this season.

Rashford moved to Barcelona on loan from Manchester United this summer and the LaLiga giants have the option of making the deal permanent next year.

Having scored five goals in 12 games including a double in the midweek Champions League thrashing of Olympiacos, the 27-year-old is clear where his future lies, ahead of this weekend’s Clasico showdown with Real Madrid.

Marcus Rashford says he is loving life with Barcelona (Martin Rickett/PA)

Asked if he wanted to stay, Rashford told ESPN: “Oh yeah, for sure. I’m 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’s an honour.”

Rashford has a contract at Old Trafford until 2028 but having also spent a brief spell on loan at Aston Villa last season it is highly unlikely he will return under current boss Ruben Amorim.

“People forget this, but 24, 23 years of my life was with Manchester United, so sometimes you just need a change,” added Rashford. “I think maybe this is the case with me and I’m enjoying everything.”

Injury problems loom before Clasico

Real Madrid host Barcelona this weekend as both sides grapple with a mounting injury crisis that has left them severely depleted.

Former Real midfielder Alonso faces his first Clasico after replacing Carlo Ancelotti, who departed for Brazil's national team in May following a trophyless campaign in which Barcelona dominated their rivals with four wins from four meetings.

Barcelona's superiority was emphatic, scoring 16 goals against Madrid en route to a LaLiga and Copa del Rey double, as well as the Spanish Super Cup title, as Ancelotti's Real Madrid finished the campaign empty-handed.

Alonso's tactical experiments have yielded mixed results. A humbling defeat to Paris St Germain in the Club World Cup semi-final and a loss to local rivals Atletico Madrid in LaLiga have raised questions about his project, with Real often looking exposed to counter-attacks.

Their star goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has been forced to work his magic, producing crucial saves to help them secure many valuable points.

Jude Bellingham epitomises Real's season, with the England midfielder still finding his rhythm after shoulder surgery that sidelined him for several months. On his first start after surgery against Atletico Madrid, he was one of Real's worst performers and clearly out of rhythm.

Bellingham did manage his first goal of the season in Real's 1-0 Champions League victory over Juventus on Wednesday, offering hope of a return to form.

Real's attack remains a bright spot, with Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr flourishing while 20-year-old Turkey international Arda Guler is experiencing a breakout season. They have won all but one of their 12 games across all competitions this season.

They are top of the LaLiga standings on 24 points, two ahead of Barcelona, who appear to be travelling in the opposite direction under Hansi Flick after last season's double triumph.

The German coach guided his team to within minutes of their first Champions League final in a decade, but recent form has been concerning.

Getty

The Catalans needed a goal in added time by defender-turned-centre-forward Ronald Araujo to beat Girona on Saturday and avoid going three consecutive games without victory.

They were also struggling against Olympiacos in the Champions League on Tuesday until the Greek side were reduced to 10 men with a controversial red card which helped Barcelona take control before they romped to a 6-1 victory.

Barca's injury crisis has reached alarming proportions, with 10 players lost since August.

Lamine Yamal, who finished second in the Ballon d'Or vote, is struggling with lingering groin injuries and faces questions about his work ethic and off-field distractions.

The injury list makes for grim reading for both sides. Barcelona will be without Dani Olmo, Robert Lewandowski, Gavi and goalkeepers Joan Garcia and Marc-Andre ter Stegen, while coach Flick cannot be on the bench at the Santiago Bernabeu after receiving a red card against Girona.

Real Madrid are monitoring right backs Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dani Carvajal, who returned to training this week but may not be risked in such a high-stakes encounter.

Club sources suggest key defender Dean Huijsen is on track to play after missing recent matches with a calf muscle injury, while David Alaba and Antonio Ruediger remain ruled out.

additional reporting by agencies

- Lawrence Ostlere

LAMINE YAMAL'S GIRLFRIEND NICKI NICOLE SHARES JOKES WITH RAPHINHA & DANI OLMO AS TRIO WATCH BARCELONA THRASH OLYMPIACOS

Barcelona smashed Olympiacos 6-1 in the Champions League on Tuesday night at Montjuic and were cheered on by Lamine Yamal's girlfriend Nicki Nicole. The Argentine rapper was spotted in the stands and sharing jokes with Yamal's team-mates Raphinha and Dani Olmo, who missed the game due to injury. Yamal scored a penalty and grabbed an assist on a good night for Hansi Flick's side.

Nicole watches on as Barca run riot

Barcelona were in great goalscoring form on Tuesday as they hit Olympiacos for six. Fermin Lopez bagged a hat-trick and took home the match ball, Yamal was on target from the penalty spot and Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford grabbed a brace in an emphatic win. Olympiacos had been in the game at 2-1, but saw Santiago Hezze harshly sent off, and then were left further enraged when Barca were awarded a penalty after a VAR review when Rashford went to ground in the area.

Yamal coolly slotted home the resulting spot kick to thrill fans in the stands and Barca went on to win with ease. Girlfriend Nicole was also spotted having a great time as she smiled and joked with Raphinha and Olmo during the match. The duo were watching from the stands after being ruled out of the game through injury along with Joan Garcia, Gavi, Robert Lewandowski and Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

Getty Images Sport

Yamal makes more history at Barcelona

Yamal celebrated scoring by blowing a kiss up to the stands as he netted his fifth goal of the season in all competitions for Barcelona. The teenager also made more history during the game as he became the youngest player to reach 25 appearances in Champions League history at the tender age of just 18 years and 100 days. 

Manager Hansi Flick was happy to see his team return to winning ways in the competition after defeat to defending champions Paris Saint-Germain last time out. He told reporters after the victory: "The first thing is that we won today, which was the important thing, and this should give us confidence for that match. It's a tremendous game. We don't have time to waste. We're going to bounce back. Every game gives you confidence. We won last season, but that's in the past. We're in a different situation, but I'm optimistic because of last season and because I see ourselves capable. Maybe we'll get some players back. We'll see; we have time to rest and prepare for the match."

Flick not worried about Yamal's private life

Yamal's love life has been making headlines this season amid his burgeoning romance with Nicole. The rapper has said she's "very much in love" with Barcelona's brilliant 18-year-old and the duo have been offering fans regular glimpses of their time together on social media, most recently sharing a helicopter ride together during the international break.

There has been speculation that there is tension at Barcelona about Yamal's private life, something Hansi Flick was quick to shoot down at a pre-match press conference ahead of his team's win over Girona last time out in La Liga.

"For me, what counts is that when he's here, he puts in the effort and commitment. And that's what he does. He had a few days off after working hard, and I don't interfere in his private life," he told reporters.

Flick also denied vehemently denied suggestions he had wanted to drop Yamal against PSG, after he was late for a meeting, but was blocked from doing so by sporting director Deco. He explained: "I'd like to know where this comes from; this is garbage. I'm especially grateful that this club, and Deco in particular, believes in our work. They would never ask us to do this. It's not true; I have nothing to hide. It's garbage, and if anyone says it, they're lying."

- Gill Clark

BARCELONA MAKE MARCUS RASHFORD TRANSFER DECISION AFTER MAN UTD AGREEMENT

Marcus Rashford joined Barcelona on loan from Manchester United (Picture: Getty)

Barcelona have made a decision on signing Marcus Rashford permanently from Manchester United after his first few months at the club.

Rashford said he felt like he was ‘at home’ after joining Barca on an initial season-long loan deal back in July.

The England international last played for Manchester United in December 2024 after being dropped by Old Trafford boss Ruben Amorim and eventually banished from the first team.

Rashford showed glimpses of his potential during a loan spell at Aston Villa in the second-half of last season and has continued to impress this term at the Nou Camp.

The 27-year-old has scored three goals and made four assists in his first ten games for Barca, with two of his goals coming in a Champions League win over Newcastle United.

According to The Sun, Barcelona are ‘ecstatic’ with Rashford’s early form at the club and already intend to sign him on a permanent transfer next summer.

During talks with Barca over the summer, Manchester United agreed the Spanish champions could sign Rashford permanently for just over £30m in a year’s time.

That means Rashford has most likely played his last game for United, the club he first joined at the age of eight before going on to make 426 first-team appearances for.

Rashford looked at best misused and at worst disinterested during the latter stages of his lengthy Old Trafford spell but Barcelona have been impressed by his ‘work ethic and talent’.

He became the first male England player to play for Barca since former striker and Match of the Day host Gary Lineker.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta was reportedly left ‘stunned’ Manchester United were willing to part ways with Rashford, especially for a relatively small fee.

Rashford came on as a second-half substitute in England’s routine friendly win over Wales on Thursday night and could start Tuesday’s World Cup qualifier against Latvia.

Discussing Rashford’s struggles at Old Trafford, Barcelona chief Deco recently said: ‘What we thought he could bring to us, he’s bringing.

‘He’s a very high-level player; he exploded very early, then he had great seasons at United, then he had more complicated management years with changes of coaches, and perhaps he also struggled because they demanded a lot of things from him there.

‘But we’re happy with him; that’s the most important thing.’

On the possibility of Rashford staying at Barcelona beyond this season’s loan, Deco added: ‘He has a simple loan, there’s no penalty. If we want him, we have a purchase option.

‘It’s too early to talk about decisions for next season, but what matters is that we’re happy with him.

‘These aren’t decisions for now; now it’s time to focus on the upcoming games. A decision will be made, but that’s not being discussed now.

‘There’s a contract between the clubs, but it needs to be discussed.’

Rashford, meanwhile, admitted he was relishing his time at Barcelona while speaking after a Champions League game last month.

‘It’s going good,’ he told TNT Sports. ‘Obviously learning a lot, it’s a new way of football.

‘I’m enjoying it all and I think it’s making me a better player. That’s what I’m here to do, help the team win but also try and improve and be the best I can.

‘Honestly it’s an amazing experience, I’ve always been a huge admirer of Barcelona.

‘Most people my age have watched them play from when we were younger, so it’s amazing football, amazing players and we just want to win as much as possible.’

- Louis Sealey

MARCUS RASHFORD WITH HIS WIFE-TO-BE LUCIA LOI | MAAHA BEACH RESORT

 

'IT FEELS LIKE HOME': RASHFORD JOINS BARCELONA ON LOAN FROM MANCHESTER UNITED

English forward Marcus Rashford during his introductory news conference after he joined Barcelona on loan from Manchester United on Wednesday. | AFP-JIJI

England forward Marcus Rashford said Barcelona was a club where "dreams come true" as he joined the La Liga champion on Wednesday on a season-long loan from Manchester United with an option to buy.

Media reports said that Barcelona would cover Rashford's wages this season after the player accepted a pay cut, with the option to buy set at around €30 million ($35.25 million) for the 27-year-old.

"Very excited. I think it's a club where people's dreams come true. They win big prizes. And what the club stands for really means a lot to me as well. So it feels like I am at home," Rashford told reporters following his unveiling.

"Another factor is because the conversations I had with the manager (Hansi Flick) were positive. What he did last season was terrific.

"To lead such a young team to a very successful season and come back to preseason and still want to do more, it shows me everything I thought I knew about the club and it's everything I wished."

Once seen as a club icon and homegrown star, Rashford had a dramatic fall from grace at United, marked by a falling out with manager Ruben Amorim that paved the way for him to move to Aston Villa on loan in February.

"(Manchester United) is in a period of change and they have been for a while. I don't have anything bad to say as it has been an important part not just of my career but my life, so I was grateful for the opportunity," he added.

"But like life not everything goes as simple as you thought and this is my next chapter and I'm fully focused on improving myself and helping the team win trophies."

Barcelona said Rashford had signed his contract earlier in the afternoon. "Rashford can play anywhere in attack. Right footed, he can take players on and is an excellent finisher, talents he can now show in a Barca shirt," the club said in a statement.

The move came after Manchester-born Rashford, who made 426 senior appearances and scored 138 goals for United in all competitions, fell out of favor with Amorim, who called his work rate into question.

Rashford, who won two FA Cups, two League Cups and a Europa League title with United, joined Aston Villa on loan after Amorim said he would rather put a goalkeeper coach on the bench than a player not giving their all.

United issued a statement wishing Rashford well as it announced the deal with Barcelona.

"Everyone at Manchester United wishes Marcus good luck for the season," the club said.

The forward, who has scored 17 goals for England in 62 appearances, said he was feeling fitter and better after joining Villa, where he netted two goals in 10 league games, while United had its worst-ever Premier League campaign, finishing 15th in the standings.

Rashford said he had wanted to move to Barca during the mid-season transfer window when he joined Villa.

"I was clear on my preference (to join Barcelona) from the beginning. Actually from maybe in January. It didn't work out in January so I went to Villa and enjoyed a good period there," he said.

"It was time to make another decision. My choice was easy. (Barcelona) is a family club, something I'm used to from my past. It feels like home."

Meanwhile, Barcelona canceled a preseason friendly against Vissel Kobe on Wednesday, citing "serious contractual breaches" by the tour promoter. The club also suggested it may have to scrap upcoming fixtures in South Korea.

The Catalan giants were set to play their first game in Kobe on Sunday against the J. League team that retired former Barca star Andres Iniesta also played for.

"Barcelona announces that it has been obliged to suspend its participation in the game scheduled for next Sunday in Japan due to serious contractual breaches on behalf of the promoter," Barca said in a statement.

"Nevertheless, the club will consider readjusting the leg of the summer tour in South Korea, where two games are scheduled against FC Seoul (July 31) and Daegu FC (Aug. 4), if certain conditions are met by the promoter.

"If these conditions are met, then the club will travel to South Korea in the coming days. Barcelona regrets this incident and the impact it will have on the many, many Barca fans in Japan."

The club had planned to face Italian side Como at its revamped Camp Nou stadium on Aug. 10 for its reopening but after failing to obtain the adequate permits, it was forced to move the game to the Johan Cruyff stadium by their training ground.

- REUTERS, AFP-JIJI

MAN UTD STAR MARCUS RASHFORD 'SACKED' AS HE GETS 'CLOSER' TO BECOMING 'A GARETH BALE RAGEN'

Marcus Rashford has been linked with a move to Barcelona.

Man Utd forward Marcus Rashford is now ‘closer’ to sealing a move to Barcelona after Aston Villa chose not to take up their option, according to reports.

Rashford left Old Trafford in the January transfer window as Aston Villa took him on loan for the remainder of the season after a falling out with Ruben Amorim.

The Man Utd forward was directly involved in ten goals in 17 matches at Villa Park in a successful loan spell that has once again boosted his reputation around Europe, to the delight of the Red Devils.

It is clear that Rashford has to leave this summer unless there is an incredible U-turn from Amorim, who publicly stated in January that he’d rather play his goalkeeper coach than the Man Utd forward.

When asked why Rashford wasn’t being selected, Amorim replied in a press conference: “It’s always the same reason: the training, the way I see a footballer should do in life. It’s every day, every detail.

“If things don’t change, I will not change. It’s the same situation for every player, if you do the maximum and right things we can use every player.

READ: Transfer rumour power ranking: Man Utd eye Villa star, Spurs to raid West Ham?

“You can see on the bench we miss a bit of pace on the bench. But I would put [Man Utd goalkeeper coach Jorge] Vital before a player who doesn’t give the maximum every day.”

Amorim did admit that he was “really happy” to see Rashford doing well on his loan spell, he commented in April: “All players on loan will return and then the club will decide what to do at the end of the season. The talent of Rashford, Antony… we are really happy because if you put players on loan you want them to perform.”

But Rashford is still expected to leave Old Trafford this summer with Aston Villa confirming his departure on Monday and ending any speculation that they could trigger the £40m option for the England international.

And reports in Spain claim that Rashford is ‘closer to Barca after being sacked’ by Aston Villa and ‘remains on the agenda’ at the Catalan giants.

Rashford, who is also attracting interest from Bayern Munich, could now ‘arrive for a reasonable price’ at Barcelona with Man Utd making ‘it very clear that they have no room in their plans for the English star’.

His departure from Aston Villa ‘once again opens the door for him to end up at Camp Nou’ with the Man Utd forward ‘still dreaming of joining’ Barcelona.

But Barcelona boss Hansi Flick ‘does not approve’ of the England international’s arrival – despite Deco’s admission that the La Liga side were considering him – and it ‘makes Rashford’s arrival extremely difficult’.

Amid rumours he could end up at Barcelona, Man Utd academy graduate Demetri Mitchell reckons Rashford would be a Gareth Bale ‘regen’ if he ended up playing in La Liga.

Mitchell wrote on X: ‘Rashford in La Liga would be frightening when he gets back to his best, could be like a Bale Regen.’

Another former team-mate of Rashford’s, Timothy Fosu-Mensah is hopeful that the Man Utd forward can be “happy” wherever he ends up next season.

Fosu-Mensah told The Independent: “I just want him to be happy. Everybody just wants him to be happy. The most important things is for him to feel good, for him to feel happy. Look, the quality is definitely there. Nobody needs to say anything about this quality, because he’s a top player.”

- Joe Williams

BRUNO FERNANDES IS CARRYING MANCHESTER UNITED ON HIS SHOULDER

 

MARCUS RASHFORD HAS EMBARRASSED MAN UNITED AR ASTON VILLA AFTER DOING TWO THINGS

Marcus Rashford left Manchester United on a loan basis when he joined Aston Villa in the January transfer window

Marcus Rashford(Image: Getty Images)

Marcus Rashford made another impact in an Aston Villa shirt on Friday night as he delivered an assist for Marco Asensio's opening goal in the eventually comfortable 2-0 win over Cardiff City in the last 16 of the FA Cup at Villa Park.

Rashford has caught the eye during the opening weeks of his Villa spell; while he awaits his first goal in Villa colours, he was electric when inspiring their comeback in the recent victory over Chelsea, on an evening when he set up both goals from fellow January arrival Asensio in the second half.

While three assists in six appearances so far is a fair return for a player who is still getting back up to speed having encountered a difficult few months at Manchester United prior to his move to Villa, the bare numbers produced by Rashford have been defining and point to a prosperous period in the weeks to come.

For many, the manner of Rashford's departure from Old Trafford will be regrettable; in 2022/23, Rashford scored 30 goals and produced nine assists in all competitions for the Red Devils and received a lucrative and lengthy contract on the back of that return, but Rashford has been frozen out by new manager Ruben Amorim and would appear to have no future.

Rashford's disillusionment at United could prove to be Villa's gain; two separate statistics have emerged since Rashford's Villa debut against Tottenham Hotspur in the FA Cup on the 9th of February - one being that no other Premier League has created more goalscoring opportunities than his 13 in that period.

Specifically in the cup tie with Cardiff, Rashford created six chances over the course of the evening - that number in a single match equalled the highest number of chances he produced at any point in his 426 appearances for United (that game was also in the FA Cup against Wigan a year ago).

Unai Emery is clearly helping Rashford to rediscover his very best attacking and creative form in a Villa shirt and is, on a weekly basis, rather making a mockery of United's and Amorim's decision to ease him out of the first-team environment and, ultimately, out of the club - not that Villa will be complaining having taken advantage of the situation.

- Joseph Chapman

JADON SANCHO'S BRUTAL ONE-WORD MESSAGE TO MARCUS RASHFORD SPEAKS VOLUMES ABOUT MAN UNITED'S EXIT

Marcus Rashford made his first appearance in 59 days coming off the bench for Aston Villa in their FA Cup win over Spurs.

Image: Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images

Ex-Manchester United winger Jadon Sancho has sent his former teammate Marcus Rashford a brutally honest message after making his Aston Villa debut yesterday.

The 27-year-old came off the bench for the Villains in their 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur in the FA Cup, making his first appearance since leaving Old Trafford in the January transfer window. That display was his first competitive outing in 59 days since United's 2-1 win over Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League back in early December, having been cast out by new boss Ruben Amorim.

The England international would go on record to express his desire for a new challenge, which cast his future at the club into further doubt. Rashford was included in just one matchday squad since then, in the Carabao Cup defeat to Newcastle United, but he remained as an unused substitute.

Amorim repeatedly stressed the need for Rashford to improve standards in training if he was to resurrect his United career, drawing some parallels with his situation at Old Trafford to former Reds winger Sancho.

The latter fell out of favour under former boss Erik ten Hag, having also been criticised for his attitude in training, before sealing a loan switch to Borussia Dortmund and then Chelsea this season. Sancho flourished back in Germany, helping Dortmund reach the Champions League Final, before a summer switch to Stamford Bridge, which has also been pretty fruitful so far this campaign.

Chelsea have the option to make the move a permanent one, similarly to Rashford and Villa. Rashford is still under contract at Old Trafford until the summer of 2028, but Emery's side have the option to make his move to the Midlands a permanent one for a fee of £40 million, should he impress.

Rashford was given a warm welcome by the Villa faithful on Sunday night, his first outing for the club a week after signing on the dotted line. He entered the pitch in the 65th minute, replacing fellow new boy Donyell Malen, and touched the ball 22 times, with each touch met with excitement from the home crowd.

Rashford took to Instagram to thank his new fanbase for the support, sharing six photos with the caption: "Thank you for the warm welcome. Great team performance."

Sancho gave a brutal one-word response saying: "Freedom," along with the praying and the raised hand emoji. His comment appears to take aim at those doubting Rashford, hinting we could now see the best of the Reds academy graduate having sealed a move away from Old Trafford.

Rashford will be hoping his stint at Villa Park can follow in the footsteps of his former teammate, hoping to rediscover his best form under Unai Emery.

- Matty Hewitt

ASTON VILLA GET A NEW ADDITION • MARCUS RASHFORD

 

Marcus Rashford statement: “I would like to thank Manchester United and Aston Villa for making this loan deal happen”.

"I was lucky to have a few clubs approach me but Aston Villa was an easy decision - I really admire the way that Aston Villa have been playing this season, and the managers' ambitions”.

“I just want to play football and am excited to get started. I wish everyone at Manchester United all the best for the rest of the season”.

RÚBEN AMORIM'S BRUTAL PRIVATE MESSAGE TO MARCUS RASHFORD EXPOSED BEFORE ASTON VILLA SWITCH

Marcus Rashford is expected to soon complete a loan move to Aston Villa and looks set to spend at least the remainder of the campaign away from Ruben Amorim's Manchester United

Ruben Amorim reportedly delivered a harsh parting message to Marcus Rashford as he prepares to leave Man United (Image: Getty)

Ruben Amorim reportedly informed Marcus Rashford he won't play for Manchester United again while he's in charge.

It's alleged that was the blunt message the head coach sent the forward as he heads to Aston Villa on loan. The 27-year-old is set to spend the remainder of the season at Villa, with the club having the option to make the move permanent for £40million in the summer.

As Rashford departs Old Trafford for the first time in his career, talkSPORT reported Amorim told the once-prodigal son he wouldn't be welcome in the United squad and won't ever play under him. It's been nearly two months since Rashford last donned a United shirt in a Europa League victory over Viktoria Plzen.

Amorim - who recently said he'd prefer to put 63-year-old goalkeeping coach Jorge Vital on his bench over Rashford right now - commented on the situation: "Imagine a talent like Rashford, our team should be so much better with him – but he has to change.

"If he changes, we are more than welcome [to include him] – and we need it. But in this moment we have to set some standards. We are waiting for Rashford, if he wants it really bad.

"You [the media] want to make it personal, I have nothing against Marcus, but I have to make the same rules for everybody. We need goals, we need [players who can go] one against one, we need threat in the final third."

Amorim has been less than impressed with Rashford's efforts in training, and the player made the first move by telling journalist Henry Winter he felt "ready for a new challenge" in December. Rashford will now undergo a medical on Sunday before joining Unai Emery's side on a temporary deal.

Amorim supposedly told Rashford he won't play for United again so long as he's at the helm (Image: Gett

The player is believed to have already said goodbye to his Old Trafford team-mates, who have enjoyed an upturn in results over recent weeks. Villa are covering around 70% of Rashford's £300,000-a-week wages until the end of the season, but the sum could rise to around 90% depending on certain performance-related clauses in his contract.

The Birmingham club have funded the move for Rashford after Jhon Duran joined Al-Nassr in a £65m switch. The Colombian was linked with Premier League clubs such as West Ham - who saw a £57m bid rejected last month - and Chelsea prior to completing a lucrative transfer to the Saudi Pro League.

Rashford will hope to give Villa a lift in their pursuit of Champions League qualification, with just four points between Emery's side in eighth and a spot in the top five. A 2-0 defeat to Wolves in the west midlands derby on Saturday extended Villa's recent drought to three league games without a win.

Villa are set to make the trip to Old Trafford on the final day of the Premier League campaign. However, Amorim can breathe a sigh of relief as Rashford won't be allowed to play against his parent club.

- Tom Sunderland

MARCUS RASHFORD EXIT COULD OPEN FOUR TRANSFERS FOR MANCHESTER UNITED

Marcus Rashford's future at Manchester United has taken another turn ahead of the January transfer window closing

Marcus Rashford in action for Manchester United at Aston Villa (Image: Getty Images)

Marcus Rashford started the day thinking his options away from Manchester United had disintegrated but may well end it with a new potential opportunity.

MEN Sport reported this morning that Barcelona were unlikely to agree to a deal in the January transfer window and would instead be interested in waiting until the summer to complete a Rashford deal. However, a twist was to come from The Athletic who report on Friday evening that Aston Villa have entered talks to sign the winger.

It is unclear whether Villa would want to sign him on loan or permanently but they will have some money to spend soon with Jhon Duran set to join Al Nassr. Should Rashford now leave before the January transfer window closes, MEN Sport has taken a closer look at the deals that could be opened up for completion in the aftermath.

It is unclear whether Villa would want to sign him on loan or permanently but they will have some money to spend soon with Jhon Duran set to join Al Nassr. Should Rashford now leave before the January transfer window closes, MEN Sport has taken a closer look at the deals that could be opened up for completion in the aftermath.

Patrick Dorgu

Lecce's full-back is on the cusp of joining United but the Reds are looking to complete another exit before green lighting that through. The exit to allow Dorgu's arrival was believed to be Tyrell Malacia but in the short-term, should Rashford depart first, then the Serie A wide man can arrive.

That would be seen as a big bonus for United considering Ruben Amorim's desire to strengthen the left-side of his squad this winter.

Mathys Tel

Tottenham Hotspur are understood to be pushing incredibly hard to sign Tel before the deadline on Monday but reports from Germany suggest the winger is currently uninterested in a permanent move to North London. A loan switch is thought to be more favourable for Tel at present and United are apparently willing to offer him that.

With Rashford gone, the Reds could advance their negotiations with Bayern and perhaps sign a very exciting young talent in the process.

Bayern Munich winger Mathys Tel (Image: Icon Sport via Getty Images)

Geovany Quenda

Last year, the Manchester Evening News reported that Sporting's Geovany Quenda was an option for the end of the season. If Rashford were to leave, United could loan in Tel until the end of the season before making a permanent move for Amorim's former player in the summer.

That would perhaps be the best of both worlds considering that Tel may potentially decide his permanent home is not in the Premier League.

Viktor Gyokeres

Ultimately, a permanent sale of Rashford to Villa, Barcelona or another club would be used to help the Reds sign a centre-forward. Gyokeres remains Amorim's guy and having stuck to his word of not pursuing him in January, you feel it is only a matter of time before seeds are sown to sign him in the summer.

The Swede will not come cheap so any money that United can recoup from Rashford's sale willbe used, at least in part, to sign Gyokeres.

- Jack Flintham

MARCUS RASHFORD'S MAN UNITED'S ESCAPE ROUTE BLOW ENERGES AMID TRANSFER RULE CONCERN

Latest Manchester United transfer news as Marcus Rashford could be forced to wait until the summer to join AC Milan

Manchester United winger Marcus Rashford (Image: MB Media/Getty Images)
 

Marcus Rashford's hope of securing a move away from Manchester United to AC Milan could be scuppered by the Italian giants' move for Kyle Walker.

The United star is expected to leave Old Trafford this month after falling out of favour under Ruben Amorim. Milan adviser Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who played with Rashford, has spoken publicly about wanting to open discussions about a move to the San Siro.

Borussia Dortmund, Barcelona, AS Monaco and Tottenham are all also said to be keen on the 27-year-old. Rashford has admitted being open to a "new challenge" and a potential loan move could be on the cards.

However, a move to the San Siro could be in doubt. Milan are also in talks with a move for Walker, who told Pep Guardiola of his intention to leave City. Currently, Milan are leading the race for the two English stars.

But due to rules in Italy, only one will be allowed to join Sergio Conceicao's side this window. Serie A rules state that a club may only sign two non-EU players every season, and Milan have already done that with the summer arrivals of Strahinja Pavlovic and Emerson Royal.

Despite this, they can bring a third player from outside the European Union as long as they are signed from the United Kingdom or Albania. That means only Rashford or Walker will be able to join them this window.

Fortunately for Rashford, Sky Italia have claimed the United star is Milan's preference, and they are expected to make an approach very soon.

- Josh Holland