BARCELONA, Spain: Marcus Rashford said his new club Barcelona “feels like home” after the Spanish champions completed the striker’s loan move from Manchester United early on Tuesday, with an option to make it permanent at a later date.
“Barcelona and Manchester United have reached an agreement for the loan of Marcus Rashford until 30 June 2026,” the La Liga champions announced in a statement.
“The agreement also includes an option to buy the England striker.”
Barcelona will pay around 75 percent of Rashford’s weekly wage of £325,000 for the duration of his stay at the club, according to Spanish media reports.
The 27-year-old England international is no longer a first-choice player under United coach Ruben Amorim and will spend the final months of the 2024-25 season on loan at Aston Villa.
“I think it was an easy choice for me, it’s a club based on family values, something I’ve been familiar with for a long time. It feels like home, so I think I’ve made the right decision,” Rashford told reporters.
“I’m really excited to get started and can’t wait to play the first match… it’s a special moment for me.”
Rashford, who made his United debut in 2015, has been a fringe player at Old Trafford with Amorim openly doubting his commitment and determination.
Despite being left out at his boyhood club, Rashford made it clear he did not want to criticise Manchester United.
“The situation with United is that the club is going through a phase of change and has been for a long time. I have nothing bad to say about Manchester United,” Rashford explained.
“I think the club played an important role, not only in my career but also in my life. I’m grateful to have been given the opportunity to play for them. Football is like life, not everything goes the way you expect.
“This is the next step for me, a new chapter in my life. I am now fully focused on this, to improve myself and help the team win the championship.”
Rashford will wear the number 14 jersey at Barcelona, a number previously worn by Thierry Henry and several other famous players.
“Wearing this jersey is an honour and I’m ready to give it my all,” said Rashford.
“This club was built on the spirit of winning and I’m here to contribute to that history.”