Marcus Rashford is slated to rejoin the Manchester United squad as the team prepares to travel to the Republic of Ireland for the next phase of their pre-season campaign. Michael Carrick confirmed the forward's return, noting that he will be arriving alongside teammates Kobbie Mainoo and Lisandro Martinez, who were also granted time off following their involvement in the World Cup in North America.
Rashford’s future at Old Trafford had been the subject of speculation throughout the summer, particularly after Barcelona declined to activate their £26 million option to sign him permanently following his season-long loan at the Camp Nou. The 28-year-old, who remains under contract until the summer of 2028, has not appeared in a competitive match for United since a Europa League game against Viktoria Plzen in December 2024. His previous tenure at the club saw him frozen out by former manager Ruben Amorim, alongside loan stints at Aston Villa.
Addressing the upcoming schedule, Carrick expressed optimism about having the full group together in Dublin. The squad is set to participate in a training camp, which includes a friendly match against Leeds at Croke Park on Wednesday night. Reflecting on his relationship with the forward, Carrick stated that he has a history with the player, having been on the pitch during the game where Rashford made his debut.
The club is also managing several fitness concerns following a 1-1 friendly draw against Paris Saint-Germain in Gothenburg. Mason Mount, who was substituted after 20 minutes due to a knock, was seen walking freely without a protective boot, with Carrick describing the change as a precaution. Meanwhile, veteran goalkeeper Tom Heaton was forced off at halftime with a hamstring injury. The team continues to navigate the absence of players like Benjamin Sesko, Matthijs de Ligt, Manuel Ugarte, Senne Lammens, and Matheus Cunha.
Despite these challenges, there were positive developments as new signing Youri Tielemans made his debut from the bench, alongside the return of Bruno Fernandes, Diogo Dalot, and Noussair Mazraoui. Following the Ireland camp, United is scheduled to conclude their pre-season against AC Milan—managed by Ruben Amorim—in Wroclaw, Poland, before beginning their Premier League campaign away at Hull on August 22.
The former Chelsea playmaker was seen leaving the Ullevi Stadium on Saturday without any limp or protective boot and walking freely, with his manager having confirmed that the substitution was precautionary.
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