Marcus Rashford could once again consider leaving Manchester United if his role does not improve under Michael Carrick, with the forward’s difficult start to the season raising fresh questions over his future.
The 28-year-old returned to Old Trafford after spending last season on loan at Barcelona, where he rediscovered his best form.
However, that momentum has not carried over into the current campaign, with Rashford yet to record a goal or assist in eight games.
Rashford could be looking for another exit from Man United
According to Football Insider, Rashford remains part of Carrick’s plans but could look for another move if he continues to struggle to secure regular minutes.
The report notes that he is far from guaranteed a place in the starting XI after returning from his latest injury setback.
Carrick has previously explained that Rashford is managing a physical problem, telling Man United’s official media that the winger is “carrying a bit of something” and his workload needs to be carefully managed.
The wider concern is that Rashford’s lack of production is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.
Opta records show he has gone six games without a goal or assist in the Premier League this season, while Football Insider take his total to eight without an appearance in all competitions.
There are already outside interests. CaughtOffside reports that Everton have discussed a potential January move for Rashford, with former Everton chief executive Keith Wyness claiming the possibility is “quite strong”.
Rashford could be approaching another crossroads
It feels like another defining period in Rashford’s United career.
He has already shown that a change of environment can help him. Loan spells at Aston Villa and Barcelona gave him opportunities to reset and Barcelona in particular saw a significant improvement in his attacking output.
The problem now is that United cannot afford to wait for another revival.
Carrick clearly still sees value in Rashford, but competition for attacking positions is strong and United need a reliable outlet. If Rashford returns from injury and is sidelined, another move would start to make sense for both sides.
Everton could offer him regular Premier League football without forcing him to move abroad, while Rashford would still have the opportunity to rebuild his reputation.
So the next few weeks could determine whether this is another temporary relegation or the final chapter of his Manchester United career.
Manchester United are trying to beat Liverpool to the signing of the ‘high-ceiling’ unheralded defender.