The Outcast Attacker Makes Up Mind On His Manchester United Future: Boost For Aston Villa? | OneFootball

If a recent report from The Sun is believed to be true, Marcus Rashford has already made up his mind on his future. He is ready to part ways with Manchester United and turn his loan move to Aston Villa into a permanent deal in the summer.

The 27-year-old Three Lions sensation had an illustrious spell with 426 first-team appearances for Manchester United. He joined his boyhood club at the age of seven following a two-year stint with local amateur outfit Fletcher Moss Rangers and eventually earned a key first-team status with his pace, power and precision in and around the attacking third. He helped the Red Devils conquer the 2016-17 Europa League as well as the FA Cup and League Cup twice each during his tenure.

However, he had a difficult time over the past 18 months, primarily under the former boss Erik ten Hag, followed by Ruben Amorim. His discipline, commitment and professionalism were under scrutiny, and the attacker, too, was seeking a fresh start to revamp his career elsewhere.

BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 22: Marco Asensio celebrates scoring his sides second goal with team mate Marcus Rashford during the Premier League match between Aston Villa FC and Chelsea FC at Villa Park on February 22, 2025 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Rashford got that opportunity at Villa, who also have the Champions League football to offer, and Rashford, therefore, agreed a deadline-day loan for the remainder of the season. The attacking ace hit the ground running immediately with three assists in five appearances, including a brace against Chelsea as a second-half substitute, which helped the Villans come back from behind and secure a 2-1 victory.

What Should Aston Villa Do

The versatile forward is reportedly enjoying his football again under Unai Emery, who he believes is the ideal manager to get the most out of him once more. Contrary to Amorim’s opinion, the Villa players are impressed by his attitude and dedication on the training ground. Although it is too early to make the call given his huge £325,000-a-week wages and the reported £40m asking fee, Rashford would love to extend his stay beyond this season as revealed to his close friends, The Sun understands.

Aston Villa had a scintillating 2023-24 campaign when they finished fourth and qualified for the Champions League football. They grabbed an incredible ‘top eight’ finish in the group phase to earn a direct Round of 16 qualification, but the congestion of high-profile fixtures has affected their league form. A strong finish could still see them secure European football next term, and the club should consider tying Rashford down on permanent terms if he guides them to achieve their season goals.