Rashford thanks Barca for 'special memories' ahead of Man Utd return

Marcus Rashford took to social media to thank Barcelona for the "special memories" as he prepares to return to Manchester United ahead of the 2026-27 campaign. 

Rashford spent last season on loan with Hansi Flick's side and helped Barcelona successfully defend their LaLiga title. 

The 28-year-old impressed during his time at Barcelona, registering 25 goal involvements (14 goals, 11 assists) in 49 appearances across all competitions. 

His loan from United included a reported €30m (£26m) option to buy, but the June 15 deadline for Barcelona to make that move permanent has passed. 

Instead, Barcelona have chosen to sign Newcastle United's Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi from Borussia Dortmund, while they are also heavily linked with Julian Alvarez. 

And having spent time with England at the World Cup, where he scored one goal, Rashford has penned a message to Barcelona thanking them for his time at the club and wishing them the best for the upcoming campaign. 

"I'm very grateful to everyone at the club for making my time here such a positive and memorable experience," Rashford posted on social media Thursday.

"I've enjoyed every moment and will take many special memories with me. I wish the club and all its supporters the very best of luck and every success in the season ahead."

It remains to be seen whether Rashford has a future at Old Trafford under Michael Carrick, with the England international still having two years left on his current contract. 

Since making his debut for the club in 2015, Rashford has scored 138 goals and provided 60 assists, in 426 appearances across all competitions. 

His last appearance for United came against Viktoria Plzen in December 2024, before he spent the second half of that campaign on loan at Aston Villa. 

Rashford is reportedly of interest to Tottenham and Arsenal, while Roma have also been mooted as a possible suitor. 

Carrick's side begin their Premier League campaign against Hull City on August 22, though it remains to be seen if Rashford will be a part of the United team.