Rashford Set for Permanent Exit as United Dismiss Carrick Reunion Talk

Manchester United are standing firm on their intention to move Rashford on permanently, putting paid to reports that Michael Carrick harbours ambitions of bringing the winger back to Old Trafford.

The 28-year-old departed for Barcelona on loan last summer, with the Spanish club holding a €30m option to purchase him outright when the current campaign concludes. Rashford has delivered respectable numbers for Hansi Flick's outfit, notching nine goals and laying on nine assists across 31 appearances in all competitions.

Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano revealed back in November that Barcelona would resist the urge to rush their decision on whether to activate the clause. "Barca will take their time," Romano explained at the time. "They are very happy with Rashford. The numbers are very good. The attitude is very good." He went on to predict that Rashford, along with fellow striker Hojlund, would depart United on permanent terms in 2026.

Speculation emerged recently suggesting that Carrick, who has overseen an impressive unbeaten run as interim head coach to guide United into fourth spot, might look to repatriate Rashford should he secure the manager's job on a permanent basis come summer. The pair enjoyed a lengthy working relationship, with Carrick having coached Rashford for three-and-a-half years during his time as first-team coach and caretaker manager.

However, The Sun's reporting suggests such talk is wide of the mark. United harbour no designs on recalling their academy product, with insiders confirming that Carrick gave no serious consideration to a mid-season return. Furthermore, with Carrick's current contract running only until the end of the season, planning that far ahead appears somewhat premature from his perspective.

The club's planning, it appears, proceeds on the assumption that Rashford will depart permanently when his loan spell concludes.

On the pitch, Rashford has been making a positive impression in Catalonia. Following his first Barcelona start since early January, he earned plaudits from the Spanish press for his display in a 3-0 demolition of Real Mallorca. Mundo Deportivo singled out the England international as among the Catalan side's most influential performers during a sluggish opening period, highlighting his dangerous shooting and a free-kick that rattled the crossbar. He was substituted to warm applause.