Rashford keeps No.10 for Cunha in gesture that signals his United future

Marcus Rashford is set to wear the No.14 shirt at Manchester United next season after choosing not to reclaim the No.10 from Matheus Cunha — a decision that underlines his apparent commitment to life at Old Trafford following a turbulent 18 months.

Rashford wore No.10 for United before the club assigned it to Cunha upon the Brazilian’s arrival from Wolves last summer, at a time when Rashford’s future at the club was deeply uncertain. With Barcelona declining to activate the option-to-buy in his loan agreement, Rashford has returned to United and, according to The Sun, has made no attempt to reclaim the number out of respect for his team-mate.

The 27-year-old wore No.9 — the same number he carried during a six-month loan at Aston Villa — during a 29-minute cameo in United’s pre-season friendly defeat to AC Milan last Saturday. He does not yet hold an officially assigned squad number for the upcoming campaign, but No.14, which he wore during his time in Spain, is expected to be confirmed.

Cunha, meanwhile, had a strong debut season at Old Trafford, contributing 10 goals and four assists as part of a significant attacking overhaul that saw Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, Jadon Sancho and Rashford himself all depart on various terms. Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko have since arrived to reshape the forward line.

Rashford is also said to have made a positive impression on club staff since returning, reportedly taking the initiative to mentor young academy prospects JJ Gabriel and Shea Lacey.

United’s summer business has extended well beyond the attack. Casemiro has left the club, while Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans have been brought in to strengthen midfield. A third central midfielder is reportedly close, with The Athletic reporting that United are nearing a deal to sign Carlos Baleba from Brighton for around £65 million.

With midfield business nearing completion, a new left-back is expected to be the next priority. Lewis Hall has been identified as United’s preferred option, but Newcastle United have no intention of selling, prompting the club to explore alternatives including Jorge Salinas of Racing Santander and Club Brugge’s options.