Marcus Rashford will return to Manchester United in the pre-season preparation phase after playing on loan at Barcelona.
This return opens up an opportunity for the English striker to start over, but also raises many questions about the possibility of healing the relationship with the team and fans.
After the 1-1 draw with Paris Saint-Germain, coach Michael Carrick confirmed that Rashford will join Man United in the Republic of Ireland, alongside Kobbie Mainoo and Lisandro Martinez. He may be given the opportunity to play against Leeds and AC Milan in the final friendly matches.
Rashford once lost his position under Ruben Amorim after unstable performances and training attitude issues. The climax was when he publicly wanted to find a "new challenge", thereby causing a rift in his relationship with a part of Man United fans.
Moving to Aston Villa on loan once helped Rashford regain his fighting spirit. He has contributed 10 times directly to goals after 17 appearances, helping Villa go deep in the FA Cup and Champions League.
However, this form was not convincing enough for Villa to activate the buyout clause. Rashford then joined Barcelona and continued to have a relatively positive season with 28 goals contributing to 49 matches in all competitions.
He contributed to helping Barca defend the La Liga championship and win the Spanish Super Cup, and scored against Real Madrid in the decisive match for the championship.
However, Rashford still could not surpass Raphinha to become the number one choice on the left wing. The pressing ability and creativity of the Brazilian player make Rashford's position at Camp Nou not really certain.
Man United currently lacks depth on the left wing, so Carrick considering giving Rashford a chance is understandable. Experience working with this striker since he was a player, as well as when he was a member of the coaching staff, can help Carrick understand how to exploit his abilities.
However, the accompanying risks are also very large. The "Red Devils" have undergone a process of rebuilding the squad and culture after removing many unsuitable players. Rashford's return may disrupt positive changes if he continues to have attitude problems or does not accept competition for a position.
The most important thing at this time is that Rashford must prove the change through action. He needs to accept competition with names like Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko, and be ready to contribute even when not starting regularly.
Rashford's return to Old Trafford is therefore not simply a professional matter. This is also a test of attitude, commitment and the ability to regain lost trust. Carrick may give Rashford a second chance, but it is the English striker who decides whether he can turn that opportunity into a new turning point in his career.
