Manchester United: Marcus Rashford set for new squad number on return
Marcus Rashford is set to receive a new squad number upon his return to Manchester United, following his loan spell at Barcelona. The forward, who previously wore the No. 10 jersey for seven seasons at Old Trafford, will now take the vacant No. 14 shirt. His former number was reassigned to Matheus Cunha during his absence.
Rashford’s return to Manchester United comes after his involvement with England in the World Cup, which concluded on the final weekend of the tournament. He is expected to join the squad this week for the northern Europe summer tour and could potentially feature in a match as early as Wednesday, when the team is scheduled to play Leeds United at Croke Park in Dublin, Ireland.
Squad Number and Club Future
The decision for Rashford to wear the No. 14 shirt holds personal significance, as it is the same number he wore during his time at Barcelona. Reports indicate that this number has developed a strong attachment for him, reflecting his connection to the club and city during his loan period. While the No. 9 shirt was also available, the No. 14 was reportedly his preferred choice.
According to transfer reports, there is a strong likelihood that Rashford will remain at Manchester United. Despite previous expectations of a permanent transfer to Barcelona, the Spanish club ultimately opted to sign another player. Rashford’s preference is to stay at Manchester United or move to a very top European club, ruling out offers from other leagues at this stage of his career. His current wages are also noted as a factor that could limit potential moves to other European teams.
The No. 14 jersey has a history at Manchester United since fixed numbers were introduced to the Premier League in 1993. It has been worn by 10 permanent players. The shirt was left open last season, having most recently been worn by Christian Eriksen during his tenure at Old Trafford. Notable past wearers include Jesse Lingard and Javier Hernández.
The most successful player to wear the No. 14 for United in the Premier League era is considered to be Andrei Kanchelskis. He was the first player to wear it for the club in the division, securing two Premier League titles and being the top scorer for United in the 1994–95 season with 15 goals across all competitions.
Role in the Squad
Rashford is expected to be reintegrated into the Manchester United squad, with his contract still having two years remaining. The only scenario that might alter this plan is a potential offer from a top European club within the remaining three weeks of the transfer window. However, current indications suggest such a move is unlikely.
Manchester United’s squad is noted to still require a specialist on the left wing. In the 2025–26 season, Cunha, who is naturally a No. 10 or striker, and Patrick Dorgu, who is transitioning from left-back, were the primary options for this role. Rashford’s return could address this need.
During his loan spell at Barcelona, Rashford was a regular contributor, achieving 28 goals and assists across all competitions last season, despite not being a first-choice starter. His most productive season for United was the 2022–23 campaign, where he recorded 30 goals, making him the only player in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era to reach this milestone in a single season.
The club reportedly believes that Rashford has a significant opportunity to revive his career at United. The situation is being closely followed, with the expectation that he will remain with the team this summer.
Source: si.com
