Harry Maguire has expressed his support for Marcus Rashford’s potential return to Manchester United this summer but stressed that two important conditions must be satisfied before any move can take place. Rashford is presently part of England’s World Cup squad after completing a highly productive loan stint with Barcelona, who recently chose not to activate their option to sign him permanently.

Maguire supports Rashford’s return to Old Trafford

During the 2025-26 season, Rashford featured for Barcelona on loan, contributing 14 goals and 14 assists across all competitions as the Catalan side went on to win La Liga. Despite his impressive output, Barcelona decided against paying the £26 million fee required to make the transfer permanent, having already secured the services of Anthony Gordon for £70 million.

With Rashford’s long-term future still unclear, Maguire has publicly voiced his wish to see him back in Manchester. Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, the United defender said, “Yeah, of course, I have an amazing relationship with Marcus and have had some great times with him over the years.”

Two crucial conditions for Rashford’s return

Although Maguire is enthusiastic about Rashford’s possible reintegration at Manchester United, he underlined that the move must be mutually beneficial. Reports suggest that United have kept the door open for him, as Rashford remains under contract for two more years, earning £325,000 per week.

Explaining what must happen for the return to be successful, Maguire added, “I know what a wonderful player he can be. I’m sure it’s up to the club and up to Marcus to find a mutual agreement. Of course, if Marcus does come back, we want him to come back and play and be happy and confident. It needs to be right for himself, it needs to be right for the club, but everyone knows what a great player Marcus can be for whatever club he plays for next season.”

Impact at the World Cup with England

For now, Rashford has set aside his club concerns to focus on helping England during the ongoing World Cup campaign. He made a notable impression in his first start of the tournament against Panama, earning high praise from Maguire.

Reflecting on that performance, Maguire commented, “I think he was so direct and positive with everything that he did. We spoke about the Ghana game, where it was a bit slow, and we had too much patience in the game. I think Rashy straight away took the game to Panama, and I think in the first 10 minutes, he put four or five crosses in the box, and it wasn’t as accurate as he normally is, and then he finds that one where Harry probably was unfortunate not to score. He was a constant threat throughout the game and when he’s in that mood I think us England fans know how good he can be, and I’ve had the pleasure of playing with him at Manchester United for many years, so when he’s in that frame and in that direct mode he’s unstoppable on his day.”

What lies ahead for Rashford?

Rashford will continue his World Cup journey with England as they aim to reach the final scheduled for July 19. Regardless of how far England advance, he is expected to take a brief break before returning to Old Trafford to assess his next steps.