Michael Carrick has supported the return of Marcus Rashford to the Manchester United squad, insisting “he’s our player”.

Rashford spent the 2025-26 season on loan with Barcelona, scoring eight goals and providing seven assists in 32 appearances as they won LaLiga and the Supercopa de Espana.

The 28-year-old scored a free-kick against Clasico rivals Real Madrid in the match which clinched the title, though the move was not made permanent as Barca signed Anthony Gordon instead.

Rashford, who also had a short-term loan spell with Aston Villa in 2024-25, has played 287 games for United, netting 87 times and recording 40 assists.

He has joined United’s pre-season camp, and Carrick believes the winger can offer a new threat to the frontline.

“He’s our player. He’s come back great, like any other player,” said Carrick about Rashford.

“I’ve known him a long time, he gives us something a bit different. He’s been in great spirits since he’s been back, he’s been back two or three days.”

The decisive moment, delivered by Nous 

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) August 13, 2026

United were in pre-season action on Wednesday, defeating rivals Leeds United 5-4 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in 90 minutes.

While Bruno Fernandes missed from the spot, Noussair Mazraoui scored the winning penalty for the Red Devils, and the defender believes it was an important result.

“It’s nice to score the winning penalty, but even in friendlies, the aim is to win the game,” he told MUTV.

“I think the best way to prepare for the full season is to go into every game to win. Even here [in Dublin], you can feel the rivalry of this game. It was an amazing atmosphere.

“I feel fresh and I’m ready to begin the new season.”