Can Michael Carrick reintegrate Marcus Rashford at Manchester United?

While there might have been plenty of raised eyebrows earlier in the month as Michael Carrick made a shock temporary return to the Old Trafford dugout, Manchester United have enjoyed a sensational immediate boost under their former midfielder.

Despite watching Ruben Amorim’s nightmare 14-month tenure come to an official end on January 5th, the Red Devils are clearly enjoying life under Carrick’s guidance.

Securing consecutive Premier League victories against historic rivals Manchester City and Arsenal, the former Middlesbrough boss couldn’t have dreamt of a better start to life at Old Trafford.

Despite only returning to the red half of Manchester on an initial temporary basis until the end of the season, it has been suggested that the ex-England international is already putting plans together ahead of the summer.

While Carrick might only be under a month into his Manchester return, it has been suggested that the 44-year-old is already pondering over how he can find a shock way to reintegrate Marcus Rashford back into the picture.

Rashford’s intention remains clear

While Rashford might have returned to Old Trafford over the summer following a brief loan stint with Aston Villa, the England international made it clear that he had no interest in rebuilding any bridges at his boyhood club.

At the heart of a public battle with Amorim and cutting the figure of a player who was desperate to escape Old Trafford, Rashford has enjoyed a stunning resurge since making the move to Catalonia.

Relishing life with Spanish giants Barcelona and making it clear over the past 18 months that securing a move to the Nou Camp was his sole priority, the 28-year-old has been a smash hit and few would have expected the United loanee to play such a leading role.

Once again finding the net during Barca’s 4-1 Champions League victory against Copenhagen in midweek, Rashford has enjoyed a remarkable European romp.

In fact, the 68-cap international has recorded eight direct goal contributions (five goals, three assists) in as many Champions League appearances and his stock is at the highest it has been in years.

While The Telegraph might be reporting that Carrick is desperate to find a way to reintegrate Rashford back into life in Manchester, it feels like a monumental challenge for the 44-year-old.

With it suggested that Rashford has no interest in rebuilding any bridges at his boyhood club and fully focused on completing a permanent move away from Old Trafford, the England ace is desperate to extend his stay in Catalonia.

Despite Barcelona’s high-profile financial restrictions, Italian transfer guru Fabrizio Romano stated earlier in the month that both parties are focused on making Rashford’s move a permanent one this summer.

🚨🔵🔴 Barcelona already informed Marcus Rashford and his camp about desire to keep him beyond this season.

No guarantee yet on €30m buy option to be activated, final decision later + based also on financial situation but Barça very happy with Rashy.

🎥 https://t.co/YDcAE3zRTy pic.twitter.com/lIcEUtGXN1

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 10, 2026

Could Martinez join Rashford in Catalonia this summer?

While The Telegraph might be reporting that Carrick is eager to lure Rashford back to Manchester on a permanent basis this summer, reports in Spain over the weekend suggested that Barcelona are eyeing another United superstar.

Although Lisandro Martinez might have been filled with praise for Carrick and the sensational immediate impact the former Middlesbrough boss has made, Spanish outlet Fichajes are reporting that the ex-Ajax defender has plenty of admirers in Catalonia.

Despite dealing with a knee issue and only making a first Premier League appearance of the season prior to November’s international break, the Argentinian international is widely regarded as United’s defensive talisman.

However, although Martinez might have cemented his spot as a real fan favourite since arriving from Ajax back in the summer of 2022, there is concern around Old Trafford over his contract status.

With the 28-year-old’s current deal set to expire next summer, discussions over an extension have failed to materialise and Barcelona are reportedly keeping a close eye on proceedings.

“I’m impressed about him [Michael Carrick], his body language, his energy” 🤩

Lisandro Martinez shares his thoughts on “unbelievable” Michael Carrick and what difference he has made to the Man Utd team🔴 pic.twitter.com/ERpfo82XYs

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) January 31, 2026