Rashford leaves out Man United in social media thanks for “believing in me” after World Cup selection | OneFootball

Marcus Rashford left out current club Manchester United as he took to social media to thank those who kept “believing in me when things got tough”, following his selection for the World Cup.

The striker, 28, has scored eight goals and assisted seven while on loan at La Liga champions Barcelona, who featured in the list of individuals and clubs on the story posted to Instagram earlier today.

Rashford made 24 appearances as United replaced Erik ten Hag with Ruben Amorim that campaign, notching four goals and one assist, before the Portuguese loaned him to Aston Villa in the February with no prominent role in the first team.

Rashford’s future remains uncertain despite expressing his desire to remain in Catalonia beyond the 2025/26 season, with this latest statement a sign that the United academy graduate’s relationship with the club may have soured beyond repair.

He said on Instagram: “Special thanks to Unai, Hansi, Thomas, Aston Villa, Barcelona & England for believing in me when things got tough.”

The story gave mention to current Barca manager Hansi Flick and England manager Thomas Tuchel, after Rashford was included in his 26-man squad for the World Cup in the summer, in addition to Villa boss Unai Emrey.

He has enjoyed a largely successful loan spell with the Spanish giants, starting in 17 games on his way to being crowned a La Liga title winner and has shown no interest in a return to Old Trafford even with Michael Carrick being hired on a full-time basis.

According to Spanish publication Sport, the England international has reportedly impressed Carrick with his loan spell and the new United boss maintains that there is a way back to Manchester for Rashford.

Sport reported: “A potential departure of Carrick could [have affected] Marcus Rashford’s future. The English manager has been one of the striker’s biggest supporters in recent months and has never ruled out a return to Old Trafford.

“In fact, Carrick believes Rashford can still be important for United and has publicly insisted that no decision has been made regarding his situation. Carrick’s role is key because there is no consensus within the club regarding the English striker.

“Part of the sporting management is pushing for a definitive change of era and considers a sale this summer a priority, especially given his high salary. Carrick, on the other hand, believes Rashford can still rediscover his best form in Manchester.”

However, it also remains uncertain whether Barca will exercise the option to buy in his loan deal, worth roughly £26m, with no verdict yet reached on Rashford’s career at the Spanish champions.

If Rashford is to return to his boyhood club, this latest development indicates he likely won’t be sticking around out of his own volition even with the prospect of playing Champions League football next season.