Maguire backs Rashford to stay at Man United and calls him a ‘Big Asset’

Harry Maguire believes Marcus Rashford can make Manchester United a stronger team and provide a major goalscoring threat, as the defender expressed his hope that the forward remains at Old Trafford for the upcoming season.

Rashford has not featured regularly for Manchester United since falling out of favour with former manager Ruben Amorim in December 2024. The England international has subsequently spent the past 18 months on loan, first with Aston Villa and then Barcelona.

The 28-year-old’s future at his boyhood club remains uncertain, although new United manager Michael Carrick described Rashford as “our player” last week.

After an extended break following the World Cup, Rashford returned to United’s squad last week and made an appearance from the bench during Sunday’s 4-2 pre-season defeat to AC Milan.

“Obviously the transfer window is still open. As players, we hope he stays because if he does, he is a big asset to have. He can improve us for sure,” Maguire said after the defeat.

The defender was impressed by Rashford’s impact after coming on, highlighting the danger he posed to the Milan defence.

“You saw when he came on, he threatened the backline really well. He could have scored. He’s a huge threat.”

Maguire, who has played alongside Rashford for several years, also believes the forward’s presence in training could benefit the squad.

“I’ve played with Marcus for numerous years and I know that playing against him and playing with him in training is going to help us.”

Rashford’s future is therefore likely to remain a major talking point as the transfer window approaches its final stages, with United yet to make a definitive decision on whether he will stay at Old Trafford or seek another move.

Manchester United, who finished third in the Premier League last season, will begin their new league campaign away to promoted Hull City on August 22.