Marcus Rashford keen to play alongside Lamine Yamal at Barcelona

Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford has expressed interest in playing alongside Spanish teenage sensation Lamine Yamal at Barcelona, amid growing speculation over his future at Old Trafford.

The 27-year-old England striker, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Aston Villa after falling out of favour under United manager Ruben Amorim, is currently training in Spain ahead of pre-season.

Speaking to Spanish influencer Javi Ruiz, Rashford was asked about the possibility of joining forces with Yamal at Barcelona.

“Yes, for sure. Everyone wants to play with the best. Hopefully… we’ll see,” Rashford said.
Yamal, 17, was instrumental in Barcelona’s domestic double last season and shone for Spain in their victorious Euro 2024 campaign. Rashford was full of praise for the teenager.

“It’s difficult to put into words what he is doing. He is not supposed to be doing that at 16 or 17. We haven’t seen that before. It’s a skill to play at that age with that mentality.”

Rashford’s comments come amid reports suggesting he doesn’t see a future at Manchester United under Amorim, who dropped him in December before he went on loan. Barcelona sporting director Deco has previously admitted admiration for Rashford and Liverpool’s Luis Diaz, but financial constraints could limit their ability to act.

The Catalan giants recently agreed on personal terms with Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, but La Liga’s strict financial ‘1:1 rule’, which ties spending to income, continues to restrict their transfer moves.

While Rashford has mostly featured on the left wing in recent years, he noted that he is growing more comfortable playing centrally.

“The number nine position is becoming more natural for me. Playing with my back to goal is getting easier. You’re near the goal, so you’re dangerous.”

With Barcelona monitoring his situation and Rashford open to a new chapter, the summer transfer window could offer a fresh start for the England international, potentially in the same colours as one of Europe’s brightest young stars.