Marcus Rashford's England Role and Barcelona Transfer Talks Intensify

England manager Thomas Tuchel is weighing Marcus Rashford for a starting spot at the 2026 World Cup, with analysts suggesting his speed could see him outrank Anthony Gordon on the right flank. Rashford, fresh from a successful loan at FC Barcelona where he recorded 14 goals and 14 assists in 48 matches, is also being considered alongside Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka in the squad's attack.

Barcelona, under new coach Hansi Flick, have indicated a desire to convert Rashford’s loan into a permanent deal. The Spanish club holds a €30 million purchase option but has not yet exercised it, seeking a more flexible payment arrangement with Manchester United, which insists on the full fee. Other clubs, including Real Madrid and Aston Villa, have shown interest, but recent reports highlight Flick’s approval for a permanent move, pending negotiations.