Barcelona have decided against exercising Marcus Rashford’s buy option, meaning he will remain a Manchester United player for the foreseeable future.
After a successful loan spell in Spain, winning the 2025/26 La Liga title, it is no secret that Marcus Rashford wanted to stay at Barcelona.
Barcelona’s deal with Manchester United included a £26m buy option, which is valid until June 15.
This has led to speculation in recent months, and Barca’s £70m deal to sign Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United has cast further doubt over Rashford’s future.
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Barcelona axe Marcus Rashford
Although it doesn’t look like Rashford will be reintegrated into Michael Carrick’s squad, the 28-year-old looks set to return to United for pre-season after the 2026 World Cup.
Despite scoring 14 goals and registering as many assists for Barcelona, the La Liga champions have decided not to exercise Rashford’s £26m buy option, as per Marca.
The report states that there is no going back for Rashford, seemingly putting an end to a dream move, with two key reasons outlined.
Those factors included Gordon’s defensive work, which impressed Hansi Flick, who considers high pressing essential. This was noted as one of Rashford’s weaknesses at Barcelona.
On top of that, Rashford turns 29 in October, making him three and a half years older than Gordon.
This will be damning for Rashford, who has had his heart set on a permanent deal at Barcelona. United will hope that he can perform at the World Cup to spark widespread interest.
- ⚡️ NEWS IN BRIEF
- Barcelona have decided not to exercise the £26m buy option to sign Marcus Rashford
- Rashford is currently away with England preparing for the 2026 World Cup
- The 28-year-old could return to Manchester United for pre-season
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Marcus Rashford removes Barcelona from his bio on all social media platforms
A glance at Rashford’s profiles on social media networks like Instagram shows that the United forward has removed any mention of Barcelona from his bio.
Rashford needs to focus on performing for England at the World Cup to play himself back into the transfer market.
The best scenario for Rashford would be if another big Champions League club were willing to take a risk on the England international.
Rashford’s biggest stumbling block will be his salary.
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