Barcelona have completed a one-year loan deal with Rashford, with a buy-in clause in the summer of 2026. Although the two sides did not disclose financial details, the estimated cost is about 35 million USD.
Immediately after completing a medical check-up in Spain, Rashford was introduced at Camp Nou. Here, he wore the number 14 shirt.
Speaking on his debut day, Rashford expressed his joy at joining the team: "Barca is where dreams come true. I felt like I was at home, and that was very important. I am eager to contribute, win titles and continue to improve myself".
The 28-year-old revealed that the positive conversation with coach Hansi Flick played an important role in the decision to move to Barcelona. He praised what the German strategist did last season, especially for an aspiring youth team.
Initially, Barca prioritized chasing Nico Williams and Luis Diaz. However, when Williams renewed with Bilbao and Liverpool rejected Diaz's offer, the Catalans switched to Rashford.
I have wanted to go to Barca since January. When I didn't, I chose Aston Villa and had a great time there," Rashford shared.
In the second half of last season, he played for Aston Villa on loan, scoring 4 goals and having 5 assists after 17 matches. Despite their impressive performance, this team did not buy a break because they did not qualify for the Champions League.
Rashford grew up in the Man United training center and debuted for the first team in 2015. In nearly a decade at Old Trafford, he scored 138 goals in 426 matches and contributed 17 goals for England. The 2022-2023 season marks the peak of his form with 30 goals in 56 matches. However, a conflict with coach Ruben Amorim forced Rashford to leave Man Utd at the end of 2024.
As for the immediate plan, Barca has canceled the friendly match with Vissel Kobe in Japan due to contract reasons, but still kept the tour schedule in Korea, respectively against FC Seoul on July 31 and Daegu FC on August 4. Rashford is expected to be able to play in both matches.
