Rashford rules out resolving Man Utd future until World Cup campaign ends

Marcus Rashford has drawn a firm line under his club future for now, insisting he will not deal with his Manchester United situation until England’s World Cup campaign concludes. The 28-year-old forward is set to feature for Thomas Tuchel’s side in their round of 16 tie against co-hosts Mexico.

Speaking to reporters ahead of the match, Rashford was unambiguous about his priorities. “As a person, I live in the moment,” he said. “I was very clear with everyone involved before the World Cup. I wanted it done before, and if not, then I won’t deal with it until after that. I want to fully be present in this moment. At the same time we’re fighting for something. I don’t have energy to be putting into other things.”

The uncertainty stems from Barcelona’s decision not to exercise their £26m option to sign Rashford permanently after his loan spell at the Camp Nou. Despite contributing 14 goals and 14 assists in 49 appearances and playing a significant role in their La Liga title win, the Catalans instead spent £69.3m to sign Rashford’s England team-mate Anthony Gordon. Rashford subsequently reverted to being a Manchester United player, though he has made clear he does not wish to remain at Old Trafford.

United are understood to be unwilling to loan Rashford out again and are pushing for a full sale. Barcelona have not abandoned hope of re-signing him, but their preference is another loan arrangement — a position that puts the two clubs at an impasse. Rashford still has a contract at Old Trafford running until the summer of 2028.

He has been linked with Premier League rivals Tottenham, Arsenal and Chelsea, though a permanent return to Barcelona is reported to remain his preferred destination. United, meanwhile, are making contingency plans should Rashford fail to secure a move and return for pre-season — expected roughly three weeks after England’s World Cup involvement ends. The club are also understood to be targeting West Ham’s Crysencio Summerville, valued at around £50m, as their top option for the left-wing position regardless of how the Rashford situation resolves.