​Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford’s difficulties at the FIFA World Cup could influence his prospects this summer. The English winger appears surplus to requirements at Old Trafford, and INEOS are reportedly ready to cash in on him to help finance a busy transfer window. Last season, Rashford spent a productive spell on loan at Barcelona, accumulating 14 goals and 14 assists in 49 appearances to contribute to La Liga and Supercopa de España glory. United had hoped the Catalan club would trigger the €30 million buy option in his contract, but that deal has not materialized. Instead, Barcelona have added Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United to bolster their attack.
There has also been interest from other Premier League clubs, with Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur linked with a move. Recent reports suggest United could reintegrate the 28-year-old into their pre-season squad, but a sale remains an attractive option given his status as a product of their academy.
United had hoped a strong World Cup showing would spark a bidding frenzy for Rashford this summer, but events have not unfolded as planned. He came off the bench to score England’s final goal in the 4-2 group-stage victory over Croatia, followed by a seven-minute cameo against Ghana in a goalless draw. He started the final group game against Panama but failed to leave a lasting impression as the Three Lions secured a 2-0 win.
Rashford was in the starting lineup for the Round of 32 clash with Congo, yet he was withdrawn in the 61st minute after failing to make an impact. His replacement, Gordon, assisted twice to help England come from behind for a 2-1 victory. In contrast, Barcelona’s new signing has retained his starting berth in the wins over Mexico in the Round of 16 and Norway in the quarter-finals. Rashford, by contrast, has been an unused substitute in the last two matches.
Former England defender Stuart Pearce has weighed in on the matter, speaking to talkSPORT. He questioned manager Thomas Tuchel’s decision not to call on Rashford even when England were chasing a game. Pearce said: “I found it quite strange that when we were chasing a game and looking for inspiration [there was] no sign of Marcus Rashford. He didn’t feature in Mexico either, so we’ve had two games recently where you’re seeking a bit of cutting edge and someone who might grab a goal with a bit of pace on the counter-attack.”
Pearce offered reflections on why Tuchel may have held back, suggesting perhaps there are things seen in training that convince the manager to trust other players more, or perhaps it was a matter of tailoring tactics to the moment. He added that it was puzzling to see a player of Rashford’s quality left on the bench at times, especially when the team needed a spark, and he wondered whether there were broader strategic considerations at play beyond mere selection.