Marcus Rashford’s time at Manchester United looks all but over. The 27-year-old forward sealed a shock loan move to Aston Villa on deadline day, and even if Ruben Amorim departs as United boss, a return seems highly unlikely.
Rashford, who’s under contract at Old Trafford until 2028, could feature for United in pre-season if Amorim is gone, but sources suggest the relationship between club and player is beyond repair. His situation mirrors Jadon Sancho’s, who had a brief pre-season return before heading to Chelsea on loan.
At Villa, Rashford will wear the No. 9 shirt and is eager to reignite his career under Unai Emery. “He’s a top manager,” Rashford told Villa TV. “This is my first time playing for another club, but I’m excited, not scared.” He could make his debut in the FA Cup fourth-round clash against Spurs.
Villa also bolstered their attack with PSG’s Marco Asensio on loan, while Chelsea’s Axel Disasi is set to reinforce their defense. Meanwhile, United opted against signing replacements for Rashford and Antony, leaving Amorim with just four recognized attackers: Højlund, Zirkzee, Amad, and Garnacho.
Defensive depth remains a concern too, with Lisandro Martínez potentially out for the season. United didn’t move for cover, even as Bayern’s Mathys Tel loan collapsed over a £5m fee demand.
United’s hierarchy remains “content” with their January business, but for Rashford, the chapter at his boyhood club appears to be closing for good.
