Marcus Rashford’s return and Manchester derby reflections

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, September 13, 2026

Marcus Rashford is set to play in his 199th Manchester derby against Manchester City, a fixture that first highlighted his talent when he scored a winning goal as an 18-year-old in 2016. Despite facing challenges including injuries and loan spells, Rashford’s renewed form and commitment under coach Michael Carrick position him to be a crucial player for Manchester United moving forward.

Marcus Rashford’s professional journey has come full circle as he prepares to face Manchester City in the 199th Manchester derby at Old Trafford. The 28-year-old forward first announced himself in this fierce local rivalry a decade ago, scoring the winning goal just 15 minutes into his debut derby match in 2016. At 18, Rashford’s audacious play, including a nutmeg on defender Martin Demichelis before slotting the ball past goalkeeper Joe Hart, marked the emergence of a new Manchester United star.

Rashford’s rise under Louis van Gaal was rapid and notable. Initially set to be a substitute in a Europa League game against Midtjylland, an injury to Anthony Martial pushed him into the starting lineup, where he promptly scored twice on debut. This performance secured his place in the first team, and subsequent goals in his Premier League debut against Arsenal followed, along with a first call-up to the England national team.

Despite his early success, Rashford’s career has experienced significant challenges. Following a dip in form and off-field controversies—including a well-publicized social outing after a heavy defeat to City and a fallout with former United head coach Ruben Amorim that led to Rashford being excluded from the squad—he spent time on loan at Aston Villa and Barcelona. Injuries to his back and shoulder and scrutiny over his dedication to the sport added to the difficulties.

Nevertheless, Rashford’s bond with Manchester United remains strong. Having been a boyhood fan and a product of the club’s youth system, he chose United over rival City early in his youth career despite proximity to City’s academy. Coaches and former players, including Ryan Giggs and Michael Carrick, have noted his talent and determination. Carrick, now United’s head coach, has played a key role in facilitating Rashford’s reintegration into the squad, describing a positive change in the forward’s attitude and commitment since his return.

Off the pitch, Rashford gained national recognition for his campaign against child poverty, earning an MBE in acknowledgment of his contributions. However, he also faced adversity, including racist abuse targeting a mural of him after a penalty miss in Euro 2020.

Financially, Rashford has progressed from earning approximately £3,000 a week at the start of his professional career to a current weekly salary of around £325,000, following a contract renewal in 2023 after a 30-goal season.

With two years remaining on his contract, Rashford’s future at United remains open, although his recent form and renewed enthusiasm suggest he is poised to reestablish himself as a key figure for the club. As he prepares once again to compete in the fixture that launched him into the spotlight, Rashford embodies both the challenges and resilience that define a career in top-level football. Manchester United’s local rivalry with City remains a stage rich in personal and professional significance for the forward, who has scored seven goals in derbies to date, including a memorable late winner at Old Trafford in January 2023.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.