Marcus Rashford: Barcelona set criteria for United loanee’s permanent stay | OneFootball

Marcus Rashford has rediscovered his old form since leaving Manchester United this summer to join Barcelona on a season-long loan, prompting talk of a permanent stay at Camp Nou.

The former Carrington graduate, who has scored 138 goals and set up 78 more from 426 games for the Red Devils’ senior side, was deemed surplus to requirements by Ruben Amorim by the end of last year.

After a six-month loan spell at Aston Villa, the Englishman joined the Catalans before the start of this season and has been a revelation so far.

Rashford’s heroics in Spain

Rashford has registered seven goals and 11 assists in 23 games in all competitions for Barcelona this season, 16 of which have been starts.

Marcus Rashford Stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Transfermarkt.

Raphinha’s return from injury has affected the Englishman’s game time of late, but his stock remains high. The Catalans reportedly have a €30 million purchase option in the player’s deal, although it is unclear if they will exercise this option.

A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person states that Rashford has his heart set on a permanent stay at Camp Nou. However, an update on the matter suggests that the player must meet certain requirements to get his wish.

Barcelona lay down criteria for permanent deal

According to reports in Spain via TEAMtalk, Barcelona have set out two criteria which Rashford must fulfil to earn a permanent stay at the club. The report adds that club sporting director Deco has serious doubts about the player’s long-term stay at the club.

According to the report, the first condition set for the Englishman is that he has to work harder on the pitch. Hansi Flick puts a lot of importance on off-the-ball pressing in his system, and Rashford has yet to reach the levels of someone like Raphinha in this criterion.

The 28 year old has improved his defensive contributions, but Flick reportedly believes he can do much more.

The report also adds that Rashford will also have to take a pay cut to get a deal across the line. The Englishman earns around €16 million per year from his contract with United, and the Catalans cannot afford this sum.

As such, if he wishes to make his stay permanent, the player will have to significantly reduce his salary to fit into the club’s wage structure.

Final Thoughts

The Rashford saga has dragged on for a while and United will be hoping for a conclusive end next summer. A permanent stay at Camp Nou would suit both the player as well as the Red Devils.

Meanwhile, the Premier League giants could be faced with a problem if Barcelona opt against exercising that option, especially since the Englishman is reportedly reluctant to join another club. A second loan deal will not be financially beneficial for United, and could end up complicating the situation for both the player and the club.

Featured image Alex Caparros via Getty Images

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