Poster Boy to Politician: Could Rashford leave Manchester United this summer?

Marcus Rashford could be just one of the big-name casualties to leave Manchester United this summer. Rumors are circulating at Old Trafford that the England international could be on his way out the door in the next transfer window.

Incoming manager Erik Ten Hag will have a big decision to make this summer, whether it is best for the club and the player to leave United or give a man capped 46 times by his country a chance to prove he can return to the form he once displayed.

Before this season, a move away from Manchester United was never even talked about given the form he showed since making his debut. Born in Manchester, Rashford has been at United since the age of 7.

He had a dream start to his senior career, the then 18-year-old scored twice on his debut against Danish side Midtjylland in the Europa League, and repeated the tally against great rivals Arsenal on his Premier League debut. A star was born.

The player remained a stalwart in the United first team, amassing 246 appearances for the club, scoring 59 times, and registering 32 assists. So why is it being reported by TEAMtalk that the man who was once the first name on the team sheet, is now linked with a move away from his boyhood club?

Rashford had a torrid time at Euro 2020, missing in the penalty shootout in the final against Italy, which England went on to lose. He then had surgery which ruled him out of the beginning of the campaign.

Could it be beneficial for both parties if Rashford leaves Old Trafford this summer?

Knowing the talent the player has previously showcased, Paul Merson quoted on Sky Sports that it would be a huge mistake for the club to let him leave. “It’s been two or three months and there is talk of Rashford being moved on. Seriously? No manager in their right mind would come to Old Trafford and offload him.”

Is a new beginning what the player needs? Many believe the Englishman’s involvement with politics is the reason for his bad form. Roy Keane spoke on Sky Sports Monday Night Football that the player had “taken his eye off the ball” and “lost his hunger”.

A suggested swap deal with Barcelona’s Frankie De Jong could be beneficial for both clubs with Marcus getting a fresh start and United getting a world-class midfielder in return.

Incoming manager Erik ten Hag will want to speak to the player and others at the end of the season; the Dutchman will know the talent the player possesses and knows it could be a foolish move to let him leave.

A new manager who is known for his attractive attacking style of football could be exactly what the 24-year-old Englishman needs to rejuvenate his Old Trafford career.