Marcus Rashford: 'Barcelona is where dreams come true'

Striker Marcus Rashford insists Barcelona is “where dreams come true”, after officially joining the reigning La Liga champions on a season-long loan from Manchester United, with an option to buy at the end of the 2025/26 season.

The two clubs did not disclose the fee, but private sources said it was around 30 million euros ($35.25 million). Barca will pay Rashford's entire salary this season, after he agreed to take a pay cut.

“I’m so excited. Barcelona is a club that makes people’s dreams come true. They always win big trophies. And the values that this club pursues really mean a lot to me. I feel like I’m at home,” Rashford shared after the presentation.

“Another important factor was the conversations with Hansi Flick. What he did last season was fantastic. Leading a young team to a successful season and entering the new pre-season with even greater ambition. That's exactly what I've always wanted," Rashford emphasized.

From MU icon to new turning point in Spain

Once considered an icon and a star who grew up in the MU training academy, Rashford suffered a serious decline when conflicts arose with coach Ruben Amorim. This paved the way for him to move to Aston Villa on loan in February.

"MU is in a transition period, and they have been for a while. I have nothing to complain about, because it is still an important part not only of my career but also of my life. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had," Rashford said about his former team.

“But like life, things don't always go your way. This is a new chapter, and I'm fully focused on improving myself and helping the team win trophies."

Barcelona confirmed Rashford had signed on the afternoon of July 23. "Rashford can play in any position in attack. His ability to dribble and shoot accurately will be shown in a Barca shirt," the club announced.

Second time "knocking on the door" of Camp Nou

Rashford made his debut for the MU first team in 2015, scoring 138 goals in 426 matches. The 27-year-old striker and the "Red Devils" won 2 FA Cups, 2 League Cups and 1 Europa League.

He joined Aston Villa on loan in February 2025, after coach Amorim shockingly declared that "it is better to have a 63-year-old goalkeeping coach on the pitch than a player who is not giving his all".

On the MU homepage, there was also an announcement: "MU wishes Marcus luck in the new season."

The player, who scored 17 goals in 62 appearances for England, said he felt more energetic and confident after joining Aston Villa, where he scored four goals and provided five assists in 17 games, in the context of United experiencing their worst season in history, finishing only 15th.

Rashford also revealed that he wanted to join Barca right from the January transfer window: "I was clear about my desire to join Barca from the beginning. In fact, January. But things didn't work out, so I went to Aston Villa and enjoyed my time there."

Rashford could join Barca on their summer tour in Japan and South Korea from July 27.