A recent report has sent shockwaves through the football world, claiming that Marcus Rashford has requested to leave Manchester United during the January transfer window. The 26-year-old forward, who was once one of the team’s brightest stars, has struggled to replicate his previous form.
Over his last 41 Premier League appearances, Rashford has managed just eight goals and four assists, a sharp decline from his impressive 17-goal, five-assist tally in the 2022/23 season.
The Spanish outlet Nacional suggests Rashford’s poor performances stem from dissatisfaction with Manchester United’s lack of “an ambitious or stable project.” Frustrated by the club’s struggles, he has reportedly instructed his agent to explore transfer opportunities in January.
The report links Rashford to three potential destinations: Aston Villa, Napoli, and Marseille. Aston Villa’s inclusion is surprising, but under Unai Emery, the club has emerged as a competitive side, even topping the revamped Champions League. However, Napoli appears to be the frontrunner.
Rashford could reunite with former teammates Scott McTominay and Romelu Lukaku at the Serie A leaders, where manager Antonio Conte is reportedly pushing hard for the transfer. A move to Napoli would give Rashford the chance to compete for domestic and European titles.
Marseille, while interested, faces financial challenges that could hinder a deal. Still, a move to the French club could see Rashford link up with former United winger Mason Greenwood, now on loan at the Ligue 1 side.
Although the credibility of the report is debatable, TEAMtalk insider Fraser Gillan has suggested Rashford’s exit is not entirely implausible, whether it happens in January or later in 2025. Meanwhile, major European clubs such as PSG and Bayern Munich are also rumored to be monitoring Rashford’s situation, with potential interest if United approves his departure.
In other Manchester United news, the club is reportedly keen to rival Real Madrid in the pursuit of Alphonso Davies, who is in the final year of his contract with Bayern Munich. Additionally, United might allow winger Antony to leave on loan in January, with a return to Ajax being considered. The club is also tracking Sporting CP’s teenage forward Geovany Quenda, hinting at their continued focus on strengthening their attacking options.
Amid this turbulence, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has reportedly made tough decisions, including sidelining a high-earning player from the squad. This comes as the club deals with multiple challenges, including injuries and underperformance, leaving their future uncertain.
