Marcus Rashford Nears Barcelona Switch as Ferdinand Raises Concerns Over United’s Handling
Manchester United academy product Marcus Rashford appears to be heading for a fresh start in Spain, with reports suggesting a loan deal to Barcelona is all but finalized. As speculation swirls, club legend Rio Ferdinand has weighed in, questioning whether the Red Devils may have mishandled one of their brightest homegrown talents.
Rashford’s Tumultuous Season Raises Eyebrows
Marcus Rashford’s fall from grace at Manchester United has been swift and puzzling. Since the arrival of manager Ruben Amorim in November, the England international found himself on the fringes, making only six appearances before being excluded from matchday squads altogether.
United’s decision to loan Rashford to Aston Villa in January was seen as a temporary solution, with the Birmingham club holding a £40 million option to buy. However, Rashford’s long-term interest seemed fixed elsewhere — namely, with La Liga giants Barcelona.
Barcelona Agreement in Place
According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona now have an “agreement in principle” for a season-long loan deal for Rashford. While it’s not yet a permanent move, it signals a major shift in the 26-year-old’s career path — and potentially a major turning point in how his legacy at United is remembered.
Rio Ferdinand: “Have United Failed Rashford?”
Speaking on his show Rio Ferdinand Presents, the former United defender voiced his concern over Rashford’s decline and the club’s role in it.
“There must have been so much going on behind the scenes that we’re just not aware of,” said Ferdinand. “Marcus isn’t someone who really wants to talk and do interviews, so you have to respect that.”
He continued, pondering whether Rashford’s struggles stemmed from poor form, confidence issues, injuries, or deeper problems with the club itself.
“Have the club failed him? Or is it down to him? That form is gone — can he get it back?” Ferdinand asked. “What are the issues that led to a young kid, a graduate of the Manchester United academy, wanting to leave?”
Rashford Among Several Seeking Exit
While Rashford’s situation has attracted the most attention, reports suggest he’s not alone in wanting a move away from Old Trafford. Jadon Sancho, Antony, Tyrell Malacia, and Alejandro Garnacho have all been named as players exploring their options.
What was once seen as a core group of United’s future stars is now at risk of being dismantled, as the club faces scrutiny over its player development and man-management strategies.
A New Chapter in Spain?
For Rashford, the potential switch to Barcelona could offer a much-needed reset. Surrounded by world-class teammates and freed from the pressures of Old Trafford, he may yet rediscover the form that once made him one of England’s most exciting young talents.
If he thrives in La Liga, the decision to let him leave could come back to haunt Manchester United.
