Former Manchester United skipper Harry Maguire has opened up on Marcus Rashford’s potential return to the club.
Harry Maguire has backed Marcus Rashford’s potential Manchester United return, insisting the England international would be welcomed back if a deal cannot be agreed elsewhere this summer.
Maguire on Rashford’s potential return to Old Trafford
While speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, Maguire was asked about potentially welcoming Rashford back into the first team, and he said, via Manchester Evening News,
“Yeah, of course, I have an amazing relationship with Marcus and have had some great times with him over the years. I know what a wonderful player he can be. I’m sure it’s up to United and up to Marcus to find a mutual agreement. Of course, if Marcus does come back, we want him to come back and play and be happy and confident.
“It needs to be right for himself, it needs to be right for the club, but everyone knows what a great player Marcus can be for whatever club he plays for next season.”
Rashford’s future has once again become a major talking point after his loan spell at Barcelona came to an end. The Spanish giants decided against activating their £26 million option to sign the forward permanently, leaving the 28-year-old set to return to Old Trafford following his involvement with England at the World Cup.
For much of the past year, it appeared Rashford’s chapter at Manchester United had reached its conclusion. After falling out of favour, the academy graduate rebuilt his reputation during a productive spell in Spain, contributing 14 goals and 14 assists.
Rashford’s future remains uncertain
Harry Maguire, who has shared the dressing room with Rashford at the club and international levels for several years, made clear he still values the forward’s qualities. Speaking about his international teammate, the Manchester United defender stressed that any decision must work for both player and club, but admitted he would be pleased to see Rashford return in the right frame of mind.
The Englishman also highlighted the close relationship they have built during their time together at Old Trafford, and praised Rashford’s direct running, confidence and ability to trouble opposition defences. When the 28-year-old is playing with freedom, he remains one of the most dangerous forwards around.
Maguire’s comments come at a time when Rashford remains one of the most intriguing figures in United’s summer plans. With no permanent move materialising and two years left on his £325,000-per-week contract, a Manchester United return is now a live possibility. The club and Rashford’s camp are seeking a solution that suits both parties; interest from rival clubs persists.
Michael Carrick has signalled openness to re-integrating Rashford into the squad. He is expected to be a part of their pre-season following the World Cup, as his camp and United continue to explore potential destinations.