Marcus Rashford has disclosed that his recent move to Barcelona followed previous transfer discussions with the Spanish club, saying the timing was finally right for a change after more than two decades at Manchester United.
The England international joined Barcelona on a season-long loan in July, with the Catalan side holding an option to make the transfer permanent next summer. Rashford, 27, has quickly adapted to his new surroundings, scoring five goals in 12 appearances across all competitions.
Speaking to ESPN ahead of Saturday’s Clásico against Real Madrid, Rashford said the switch to LaLiga has provided the “new environment” he needed after spending nearly his entire life at Old Trafford.
“People forget this, but 24 years, 23 years of my life was with Manchester United. Sometimes you just need a change,” Rashford said. “I think maybe this is the case with me, and yeah, I’m enjoying everything.”
Rashford fell out of favour at United under head coach Ruben Amorim and prioritized a move to Barcelona after completing a loan spell with Aston Villa last season. His form has since improved significantly, highlighted by a brace in Barça’s 6–1 Champions League victory over Olympiakos on Tuesday.
The forward revealed that talks with Barcelona had taken place in previous years but circumstances had prevented a deal.
“It’s not the first time I spoke with Barcelona about potentially coming here,” he said. “For whatever reasons, it didn’t happen in the past, but now is my opportunity to make it happen.”
Barcelona are expected to assess the option of a permanent transfer at the end of the season. Rashford remains under contract with Manchester United until 2028 but has expressed his desire to continue in Spain.
“I’m enjoying this football club, and for anybody who loves football, Barcelona is one of the key clubs in the history of the game. For a player, it’s an honour,” he said.
Rashford’s resurgence in form and confidence at Barcelona has revived his reputation as one of England’s most talented forwards, while offering the Catalan side another dynamic option in attack as they look to reclaim domestic and European titles.
