Patrice Evra has urged Marcus Rashford to stay at Barcelona permanently this summer, insisting the move to Spain has reignited the England forward’s career and that he should prioritise his football above any sentimental return to Old Trafford.
Rashford spent the 2024–25 season on loan at the Catalan club after being frozen out of the Manchester United squad, linking up with manager Hansi Flick and going on to enjoy one of the most productive periods of his career. His contributions helped Barcelona claim the La Liga title, and the club are now in active negotiations with United over making the deal permanent.
Barcelona are understood to have agreed a £26 million fee with United, although talks are reported to be ongoing. Rashford still has two years remaining on his current contract at Old Trafford, giving United leverage in any negotiations.
Speaking publicly on the matter, former United and France left-back Evra made clear what he believes the right move is for Rashford professionally. “I love Marcus and the body language doesn’t lie — he’s happy now,” Evra said. “He should prioritise his football career and enjoy his football in Barcelona. He should stay there.”
Evra also revealed that Rashford had privately expressed doubts about his future at United as far back as six years ago. “I spoke with Marcus maybe six years ago and he said, ‘My heart tells me to stay at Manchester United, but my mind is telling me to go,'” the former defender disclosed.
Despite his advice, Evra acknowledged a personal desire to see Rashford return to the club where both men made their names. “As a selfish point of view, I would love Marcus to come back to Manchester United,” he admitted.
With Barcelona eager to complete the transfer and Rashford’s form in Spain speaking for itself, the 27-year-old’s next move looks set to be one of the defining storylines of the summer transfer window.
— NutmegXtra | Football News. Transfers. More.
