Manchester United is set for the return of forward Marcus Rashford after an 18-month absence from the club, manager Michael Carrick confirmed ahead of the team’s friendly match against Leeds United. Rashford, 28, is expected to join the squad at their training camp in Dublin, where the Red Devils will prepare for Wednesday's fixture at Croke Park.
Rashford last featured for Manchester United during a Europa League match against Viktoria Plzen in December 2024. Since then, he has spent time on loan at Aston Villa and Barcelona, while missing the current pre-season campaign as he recuperated following the World Cup. His return to the United setup comes as the team assembles in Ireland, where the full squad, including young talents Kobbie Mainoo and Lisandro Martinez, will regroup ahead of their next competitive season.
Carrick spoke of his long-standing connection with Rashford, recalling that he was the club captain when Rashford made his senior debut in February 2016 against Midtjylland. Carrick has also served as coach and manager during different stages of Rashford’s career at Old Trafford. The manager highlighted the importance of the tour in bringing the team together and expressed optimism about re-integrating Rashford into the squad moving forward.
The friendly against Leeds United will mark Rashford’s first appearance for Manchester United since his loan spells, signaling a potential fresh start for the forward at the club where he rose through the ranks.