Marcus Rashford Returns to Manchester United as Villa Decline £40M Option

Marcus Rashford is back at Manchester United after Aston Villa chose not to activate their £40 million buy option. The 27-year-old scored four goals in 17 appearances. Alongside Rashford, Marco Asensio and Axel Disasi also leave Villa after loan spells. Rashford, out of favour under Amorim, is reportedly eyeing a move to Barcelona.

When the 2024-25 season ended, Marcus Rashford returned to Manchester United after Aston Villa decided not to activate the £40 million buy option attached to his loan. The 27-year-old forward had scored four goals in 17 appearances for Villa but didn’t do enough to convince Unai Emery’s side to retain him permanently. Rashford joined Villa in February alongside Marco Asensio and Axel Disasi, contributing to the club’s run to the Champions League quarterfinals, an FA Cup semi-final, and Europa League qualification.

While Asensio delivered key goals, including a crucial Champions League brace against Club Brugge, he will also return to Paris Saint-Germain. Disasi, who was loaned from Chelsea, made 10 appearances before heading back to his parent club. Rashford’s future at Manchester United remains uncertain, especially after falling out of favour under Ruben Amorim.

Reports suggest the English international is eyeing a move to Barcelona. Meanwhile, Villa will also part ways with goalkeeper Robin Olsen and defender Kortney Hause, both of whom leave following the expiration of their contracts. As the transfer window opens, Rashford's next move will be closely watched, with his time at Old Trafford possibly nearing an end amid rising interest from European heavyweights.