Marcus Rashford is set to return to Manchester United but figuring out where he fits in Michael Carrick’s side is difficult.
Following England’s third-place finish at the 2026 World Cup, Marcus Rashford will return in August to Manchester United’s pre-season training.
Rashford is open to staying at United for the 2026/27 season after being snubbed by Barcelona in the summer transfer window.
Upon his return, Rashford’s £325,000 per week wages will make him one of the top earners at Old Trafford, so it is up to Michael Carrick to figure out how to utilise the 28-year-old.
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…
Marcus Rashford: Winger or striker at Man United?
Throughout his time at United, Rashford played mostly off the left wing, cutting inside on his right foot.
But Matheus Cunha was signed to replace Rashford and the Brazilian had a superb debut season with the Red Devils.
Cunha even took Rashford’s No.10 shirt after the English forward was loaned to Barcelona. So where does Rashford fit in next season? As a Cunha back-up? At £325,000 per week, it’s an expensive back-up option.
There is a chance that Rashford could become a centre-forward in Carrick’s side. With Joshua Zirkzee linked with an exit, United could head into next season with just Benjamin Sesko as a natural striker.
Rashford did play as a striker for Barcelona last season, with mixed success. But his previous performances up front for United were far from impressive.
Is this a little harsh on Marcus Rashford? Do you feel the same way?
Marcus Rashford could even take the No.9 shirt
With his usual No.10 shirt occupied by Cunha, Rashford is left in a sticky number situation if he does reintegrate at United.
The No.9 shirt is currently vacant after Rasmus Hojlund’s exit, but many assume that it could be handed to Sesko ahead of next season.
If Rashford does take the No.9 shirt, it signifies that he will play more centrally under Carrick, and that is a concern.
READ MORE: Man Utd can no longer offer Marcus Rashford what he needs, and plans are in place far beyond him
Ruben Amorim criticised Rashford playing centrally, and even Unai Emery couldn’t get a tune out of Rashford when he played down the middle.
If that is the plan from Carrick, then it also throws Sesko’s starting position into question. One of Sesko or Cunha would have to drop out for Rashford in the starting XI, and it’s difficult to see either being thrown out.
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