Rashford’s new chapter in Spain looks increasingly promising and according to Sky Sports’ Central European edition, Rashford is keen to make his stay in Barcelona permanent. The Catalan club are “closely monitoring” his progress, and the option-to-buy clause in his loan deal, reportedly worth just £28 million ($37m), is already looking like a bargain. In contrast, Manchester United are believed to value him at closer to £40m ($53m) if sold elsewhere. Determined to make the move happen, the forward agreed to a 25 per cent pay cut, allowing the Spanish giants to absorb his wages in full. The shift to a new environment, away from the glare of English media and the turmoil of Old Trafford, seems to have reignited his passion for the game.
Rashford told ESPN: “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 is an honour.”
While Rashford’s United contract runs until 2028, few expect him to pull on the red shirt again unless there’s a total reset at the club. Now, under the guidance of Hansi Flick, Rashford is thriving. His pressing has improved, his confidence in front of goal has returned, and his link-up with the likes of Lamine Yamal shows genuine chemistry.