Marcus Rashford has finally achieved his dream of joining FC Barcelona. The 27-year-old English winger has officially joined Spanish giants FC Barcelona on loan from Manchester United, with the deal set to run until June 30, 2026.
Under the terms of the agreement, Barcelona will cover his full salary of €14 million, while Manchester United will not bear any financial burden.
Rashford was not Barcelona’s first-choice target. The club initially prioritised signing Athletic Bilbao’s rising star Nico Williams and also made an effort to bring in Liverpool’s Luis Díaz.
However, after both pursuits fell through, Barça turned their attention to Rashford. For the Englishman, this represents more than just a transfer; it’s the realization of a long-held dream to wear the iconic Blaugrana shirt.
Wears No. 14 to Honour Thierry Henry
Rashford has chosen to wear the number 14 jersey at Barcelona, a tribute to one of his childhood idols, Thierry Henry. Despite growing up a Manchester United fan, Rashford was deeply influenced by Henry’s brilliance at Arsenal and later followed his journey to Barcelona, where Henry wore the same number.
Speaking to Barça TV, Rashford expressed his excitement about embarking on this new chapter: “I’m thrilled. Barcelona is a dream club, a place where you come to win major trophies. This club holds a special meaning for me. I already feel at home here.”
The England international also praised the family-like environment at Barça and credited new manager Hansi Flick for playing a key role in convincing him to make the move.
“Talking to Flick was a big influence. What he achieved last season with a young squad was remarkable. He showed enormous ambition and completely convinced me.”
When asked about leaving Manchester United on loan once again, Rashford said:
“The club has meant a tremendous deal to my career and life, and I’m truly grateful. However, I believe it is time for me to take a new step and challenge myself. I wish United all the best, but my focus is now on Barcelona.”
Loan Terms and the Price of a Dream
Although it’s a loan deal, Barcelona holds an option to make the move permanent for €30 million before the end of the contract. If they choose not to trigger the clause, they will need to pay a compensation fee of less than £5 million to Manchester United.
Additionally, the agreement does not allow United to recall Rashford during the loan period, ensuring he will remain at Camp Nou for the entire 2025/26 season.
In Top Shape, Welcomed by Flick
Despite missing Manchester United’s pre-season training, sources inside Barcelona have revealed that Rashford impressed during his medical. They deemed his muscle definition, agility, and explosive power exceptional, arguably even surpassing those of some players already in the preseason.
Coach Hansi Flick personally greeted Rashford with a warm embrace, signalling his delight at the new arrival.
Debut Postponed
Due to changes in Barcelona’s Asia tour schedule, Rashford’s debut has been postponed. The club has confirmed the cancellation of the friendly against Vissel Kobe, and the matches planned in South Korea are still under negotiation. This means that fans hoping for a nostalgic “Rashford vs. Lingard” reunion may have to wait a bit longer.
As the upcoming season draws near, all eyes will be focused on the individual donning the number 14 shirt. Will he, like his idol Henry, write a legendary chapter at Camp Nou? Let’s wait and see.
