Berrada signals Rashford is staying at United after Barcelona loan return

Manchester United chief executive Omar Berrada has indicated that Marcus Rashford’s future lies at Old Trafford, offering a public show of support for the forward in his programme notes for Sunday’s Premier League opener against Ipswich Town.

Rashford returned to United this summer after Barcelona opted against triggering a £26 million permanent option at the end of his loan spell. The 28-year-old had contributed 14 goals and 14 assists during his time at the Camp Nou, but the La Liga club ultimately decided not to keep him.

Back in Manchester, Rashford made an immediate impact. He came off the bench in the opening-day defeat to Hull City before starting against Ipswich, where United ran out 5-2 winners at Old Trafford.

In his programme notes, Berrada grouped Rashford alongside the club’s new summer signings — Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans, Karl Darlow, Tynan Thompson and Carlos Baleba — in a message that pointed firmly toward the forward being part of United’s plans.

“We’re also very pleased to welcome Marcus back to the team,” Berrada wrote. “We believe that they will all help to improve the squad as we compete on multiple fronts.”

Manager Michael Carrick was equally effusive after the Ipswich victory, describing Rashford as a player who has embraced the opportunity to rebuild his standing at the club.

“He’s one of our own. He’s living his dream, playing here now and trying to be successful and win,” Carrick said. “Whatever’s gone on, I think part of this club, there’s players that have come back sometimes, or players that maybe were going to leave, didn’t leave. It’s always about what you do next, and what your intentions are. He’s been fantastic since he came back.”

The combination of Berrada’s public endorsement and Carrick’s praise represents the clearest signal yet that United intend to retain Rashford rather than pursue a permanent sale, despite the uncertainty that surrounded his future throughout last season.