Could Marcus Rashford return to Manchester United after Amorim exit?

January 6, 2026 Oliver Obel

Manchester United’s decision to part ways with Ruben Amorim has reignited discussion around several players affected during his tenure, with Marcus Rashford once again at the centre of the conversation.

The forward’s situation has drawn renewed attention given his strong form away from Old Trafford and the changing picture at United following the managerial shake-up.

A move abroad

Rashford joined Barcelona on loan last summer after slipping down the pecking order under Amorim, opting for a fresh start outside the Premier League.

The 28-year-old has enjoyed a productive spell in Spain, registering seven goals and 11 assists in 25 appearances across all competitions for Hansi Flick’s side. His contributions have helped Barcelona establish themselves at the top of La Liga, where they sit four points clear of rivals Real Madrid.

According to SPORTbible’s reporting, the move came after Rashford found his opportunities increasingly limited as United adjusted under Amorim.

United make change

Manchester United confirmed Amorim’s departure on Monday, outlining the reasoning behind the decision in a club statement.

“Ruben Amorim has departed his role as Head Coach of Manchester United,” the statement read. “With Manchester United sitting sixth in the Premier League, the club's leadership has reluctantly made the decision that it is the right time to make a change. This will give the team the best opportunity of the highest possible Premier League finish.

“The club would like to thank Ruben for his contribution to the club and wishes him well for the future.”

The announcement immediately prompted debate over how the change could impact players whose roles diminished during Amorim’s time in charge.

Voices in support

Former United midfielder Owen Hargreaves believes Rashford could still have a role to play at the club.

Speaking on TNT Sports, Hargreaves said he hopes to see the England international return, stressing that questions over his form never reflected a lack of ability.

“I hope that Marcus comes back because he’s a special player,” he said. “I don’t know what happened between Marcus and Ruben, but I don’t think there’s any denying his talent.

“I don’t think Marcus should’ve been in a position where he shouldered all the weight for everything. In our team, he would’ve been the third or fourth guy, so he wouldn’t have to bear all the responsibility because a lot of that would’ve been taken off his shoulders.”

Looking ahead

Hargreaves also pointed to wider issues at United, suggesting the club placed too much responsibility on young players during recent seasons.

“There was too much emphasis on these young guys to be the main man,” he added. “They should never have found themselves in that position at just 20 years of age. They needed a striker who was 26–28 years old, so the youngsters could learn the ropes like teams did previously.

“I think Marcus is a super talent and the club could use him. And with Kobbie [Mainoo], I think he’ll be straight back into the team if they’re playing a back four.”

Whether Rashford’s resurgence in Spain leads to a return to Manchester United remains uncertain, but Amorim’s exit has reopened a conversation that once seemed settled.

Sources: SPORTbible, TNT Sports

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