Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has clarified the decision to leave Marcus Rashford out of the matchday squad for the recent clash against Leeds in Dublin. The forward, who has faced significant uncertainty regarding his future at the club, was expected to make a return to the pitch after 19 months away from his boyhood side. However, he was entirely omitted from the squad for the 1-1 draw at Croke Park.
Addressing the situation, Carrick told MUTV that Rashford, alongside teammates Licha Martinez and Kobbie Mainoo, was not quite ready for match action, noting that the staff is preserving them for the upcoming weekend. The United boss emphasized that Rashford remains a key part of his plans, effectively dismissing speculation about a potential departure before the summer transfer window closes. Speaking to ITV, Carrick stated, "He's our player. He's come back great. He's just like any other player. I've known him a long time and he gives us something a little bit different. We're looking forward to the start of the season."
Rashford’s career path has been turbulent in recent years. Following his last appearance for United in December 2024, he spent the remainder of the 2024-25 campaign on loan at Aston Villa. He subsequently spent time in Spain on loan with Barcelona in 2025 after being excluded from Ruben Amorim’s squad. While the La Liga club held an option to purchase the winger, they ultimately opted to sign Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi instead. This led to Rashford’s return to Old Trafford, where he has since been reintegrated into the first-team fold following an extended break after England’s run to the World Cup semi-finals.
United are now preparing for their final pre-season friendly against Ruben Amorim’s AC Milan this weekend. Following that match, the team will turn their attention to their Premier League opening fixture against newly-promoted Hull City.
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