Michael Carrick has refused to rule out the possibility of Marcus Rashford returning to Manchester United once his loan spell at Barcelona concludes.

The England forward has not featured for United since December 2024, having spent the end of last season on loan at Aston Villa before joining Barcelona for the current campaign.

Rashford, 28, has enjoyed a steady season with the LaLiga leaders, but reports suggest Barcelona are uncertain about triggering a reported £26.1 million option to make the move permanent.

That situation could leave his future in doubt heading into a crucial summer, with the forward hoping to be part of England’s squad for the World Cup in North America.

Rashford remains under contract with Manchester United for another two years, with his deal reportedly set to rise by 25% if the club secure Champions League qualification next season.

Asked about the possibility of Marcus Rashford returning to Old Trafford, Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick said any decision will be made in due course but insisted nothing has been decided at this stage.

“I just think there are decisions to be made in time, really, on certain things, and obviously Marcus is in that situation,” Carrick told reporters on Friday. “But at this point in time, nothing’s been decided. And it will be, because it has to be at a certain point, but at this stage, there’s nothing to say.”

United, currently third, can move closer to securing a Champions League spot with a win away to sixth-placed Chelsea on Saturday.

Midfielder Kobbie Mainoo could return from injury at Stamford Bridge after becoming an important figure under Carrick. The 20-year-old’s future, like Rashford’s, had previously been questioned under former boss Ruben Amorim.

Defender Harry Maguire has also seen a resurgence under Carrick, something that could be seen as encouraging for Rashford’s long-term prospects at the club.

“Certainly, from my perspective, whoever’s here, I want to work with, make the best out of and help them improve,” Carrick added. “So at the moment, it’s this squad of players, and there’s obviously players on loan, and whatever happens with that later on will happen with that later on.”