Marcus Rashford has made up his mind he wants to leave Manchester United for Aston Villa permanently when the summer transfer window opens.
The 27-year-old forward, who has been with United since the age of seven, signaled his desire for a fresh start back in December after struggling for form. Across the last 18 months, Rashford managed just 11 goals in 48 Premier League appearances, falling out of favor under Ruben Amorim.
Several top clubs, including AC Milan and Galatasaray, were linked with a move in January, but Villa emerged as the frontrunners. They secured a loan deal before the deadline, agreeing to cover around 30% of Rashford’s £325,000-a-week wages.
Under Unai Emery, Rashford looks revitalized. In just five appearances, he has already registered three assists, showing signs of a player rediscovering his confidence and quality. According to The Sun, Rashford has settled quickly and told close friends he wants to stay at Villa beyond this season, believing Emery is the perfect manager to get him back into the England squad.
Despite initial doubts from Amorim, Rashford’s professionalism and commitment in training have impressed his new teammates and coaching staff. With a £40 million purchase option in place, Villa have the chance to sign him permanently this summer.
Rashford delivered his best performance in a Villa shirt last weekend, coming off the bench to assist both of Marco Asensio’s second-half goals in a 2-1 win over Chelsea. Speaking after the match, Emery praised the forward’s impact:
“We support him, help him, try to get him comfortable and confident. He played a fantastic 45 minutes, and he’s already very important to us.”
Asensio also acknowledged Rashford’s contribution, telling Sky Sports: “We know his quality. He helps us a lot. Thank you, Marcus, for the two assists!”
With Amorim making it clear there’s no way back for Rashford at Old Trafford, a permanent Villa move now looks like the most logical step.