Rashford Joins Barcelona on Loan, Says He Feels “At Home”

Marcus Rashford says he already feels “at home” at Barcelona after sealing a season-long loan move from Manchester United to the La Liga champions.

The 27-year-old England forward has joined the Catalan club on a one-year loan deal, with an option to make the switch permanent for €35 million (£30.3m) in 2026. Barcelona will pay his full wages during the loan after he agreed to a salary cut, a move expected to save United up to £15 million over the next year.

Rashford becomes the first English player to sign for Barcelona since Gary Lineker in 1986. He trained with his new teammates for the first time on Tuesday and is set to be included in the squad for Barca’s pre-season tour of Asia later this week.

“Barcelona is a place where dreams come true. They win big trophies and have a clear identity. I feel like I’m at home already,” Rashford said in his first interview with the club. “One of the main reasons I came was the conversation I had with [manager] Hansi Flick. What he achieved with this young team last season really impressed me.”

End of an Era at Old Trafford

Rashford leaves Manchester United after a turbulent 18 months that saw his form dip, his discipline questioned, and his role under increasing scrutiny. Despite signing a five-year deal in 2023 following a 30-goal campaign, his performances fell sharply, managing only eight goals in 43 appearances last season.

He was disciplined several times, including being dropped for lateness, partying after defeats, and missing training due to illness after a night out. He was last seen in United colours before the Manchester derby in December 2024, when manager Ruben Amorim left him out and later criticised his effort in training.

The forward spent the second half of last season on loan at Aston Villa, earning an England recall but failing to cement a return to the United fold. In July, he was one of five players who told the club they wanted to leave and were instructed to train separately.

Despite the rocky exit, Rashford expressed gratitude toward United.

“I have nothing bad to say. The club means a lot to me, not just in football but in life. I’m thankful for everything and wish them success,” he said.

Now at Barcelona, Rashford is focused on rediscovering his best form and helping the club chase Europe’s top honours.

“I want to win the biggest trophies. The Champions League is one of them, and Barcelona were so close last season. This is a young, ambitious squad, and I’m here to add my qualities and help them go further. This is a dream move for me.”