Manchester United are preparing for Marcus Rashford’s return and he will link up with new signing Tynan Thompson in training.
Marcus Rashford played a key role in England’s third-place finish in the 2026 World Cup this summer, and now he can turn his attention to getting his Manchester United career back on track.
After a deserved summer break, Rashford will return in August to United’s pre-season training. When he arrives, he will be reunited with plenty of former teammates and greeted by a few new faces, including Tynan Thompson.
United signed Thompson for £4m from Tottenham and the 18-year-old has been assured of a pathway to the first team. But he is still a raw talent and needs guidance. That is where Rashford comes in.
Man Utd have confirmed a deal to sign 18-year-old winger Tynan Thompson from Tottenham – What are your thoughts?
Marcus Rashford can be a role model for Tynan Thompson
Thompson has world-class ambitions and he arrives in Manchester as one of the most exciting winger prospects in the country.
Rashford knows exactly how it feels to be a young talent at United with pressure to fulfil potential.
But on top of that, Thompson’s style of play is so similar to that of Rashford.
In early 2026, The Athletic reacted to Thompson scoring a hat-trick in a UEFA Youth League match, and their description of the young winger shows his similarity to Rashford.
“Already taller than 6ft (over 183cm), he looks physically powerful, despite his tender years, but his stature is accompanied by incredibly quick feet.
“He was always eager to pick up the ball, turn and attack the defenders.
“He also pressed effectively from the front. He didn’t overcommit or dive in, but decelerated to his man, blocked off angles and forced play into Tottenham’s traps.
“But it was in attack that Thompson truly shone. Although right-footed, he looked to manipulate the ball with his left to make himself less predictable when taking on players and wasn’t afraid to go on his left on the outside of defenders, as his finish for Tottenham’s first goal demonstrated.”
A right-footed left winger with a tall, athletic frame. Sound familiar, United fans?
After watching Marcus Rashford at the World Cup, do you want to see him back at Man Utd?
Marcus Rashford ended his World Cup campaign with a strong display against France…
What Tynan Thompson can learn from Marcus Rashford
Rashford’s main competition for the left wing spot at United next season is Matheus Cunha, but the Brazilian has a very different style of play, preferring to come short and get involved in sharp build-up play rather than stretch the pitch and run in behind.
Thompson is a traditional touchline winger, much more similar to the style of Rashford.
Rashford’s finishing has been raved about by teammates, and his decision-making and final action is where he can help Thompson flourish.
Away from the pitch, Rashford can also help Thompson adapt to the pressures of representing United and the expectation that comes with being a forward for the Red Devils.
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Rashford is now 28 years old and will be one of the more experienced members of Carrick’s squad. His La Liga-winning experience at Barcelona only adds to that.
With Rashford afforded a second chance at Old Trafford, it’s time for him to step up as a leader, and taking Thompson under his wing is essential.
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