Ruud Gullit believes Marcus Rashford's return to Manchester United could prove to be the 'best Premier League signing of the summer'. The former Chelsea manager's comments come after Rashford's loan spell at Barcelona, where he impressed with greater freedom than he had at Old Trafford.
Rashford's Return to Manchester United
Rashford's future at United appeared uncertain when he joined Barcelona on loan last summer, with a permanent £26million deal expected. The 28-year-old had expressed his desire to stay at the Catalan club, but Barcelona instead pursued Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon. After a break following the World Cup, Rashford has now returned to United's pre-season training, watching from the sidelines as the Red Devils drew 1-1 against Leeds United on Wednesday.
Earlier in the summer, an exit from Old Trafford seemed likely, but a lack of serious suitors willing to meet United's £40m asking price means the Englishman now looks set to remain at his boyhood club. Gullit, speaking to Sport Witness, expects Rashford to return to the Premier League with a point to prove.
Gullit's Endorsement
'Marcus Rashford could end up being the best signing,' Gullit told Sport Witness. 'He learned a lot at Barcelona and played much better, with far more freedom, than he ever did at Manchester United. Was that his fault, or was it down to the environment at the club? It's very easy to point fingers at the player. But if he performs well elsewhere, it suggests something was wrong in his previous environment.'
'So that could prove to be a fantastic move, for Manchester United if he stays, and performs like he did at Barcelona,' he added.
Ferdinand and Carrick Weigh In
Former United defender Rio Ferdinand has also endorsed Rashford's return, saying: 'Rashford is back at Manchester United at the training ground and guys, he's like a purring Ferrari man. He looks fit, he looks ready. And you know what, there's a smile on his face and there's a little spring in his step.' Ferdinand added: 'We don't know which way this is going to go and how it's going to pan out by the end of this transfer window. But you know what, I hope he stays and he will be like a new signing at the football club. And could this be the motivated Marcus Rashford to come out and prove all the doubters and all the people wrong? And all the naysayers. I hope it is. Let's watch this space.'
United manager Michael Carrick, speaking after the Leeds draw, hinted that Rashford is in his plans for the new season. 'He's our player, you know, and he's come back great. He's just like any other player,' Carrick told ITV1. 'I've known Marcus a long time and, you know, he gives us something a little bit different. And he's been in great spirits since he's been back. He's been back two or three days training and it's just pretty normal, to be honest. And we're looking forward to the start of the season.'
Rashford's potential stay could prove crucial for United as they prepare for the new campaign, with the club hoping he can replicate his Barcelona form in the Premier League.
