Rio Ferdinand Labels Marcus Rashford Deal ‘Robbery’ in Man Utd Farewell Note
Rio Ferdinand has effectively ruled out Marcus Rashford returning to Manchester United this summer. He praised the England forward’s form while on loan at Barcelona.
Comments and context
Ferdinand spoke on his YouTube channel, Rio Ferdinand Presents, on 7 April 2026. He described the reported £26million purchase option as a bargain for the Catalan club.
He said the recent goal against Atletico Madrid demonstrated Rashford’s quality. Ferdinand added he hopes the move to Barcelona comes to fruition.
Loan spell at Barcelona
Rashford, 28, is on a season-long loan at Barcelona. He scored in a dramatic 2-1 comeback win over Atletico Madrid.
- Goals during loan: 11
- Assists during loan: 10
- Appearances this season: 40 across all competitions
- Starts: 22
- Featured in one of the last three matches before the international break
Transfer option and valuation
Barcelona hold an option to buy Rashford for a reported £26million this summer. Ferdinand said that fee amounts to an outstanding piece of business.
He used the word “steal” and called the deal “an absolute robbery” if Barcelona secure Rashford for that price. Rio Ferdinand labels the proposed Marcus Rashford deal a ‘robbery’ in a Man Utd farewell message, he added.
Future prospects and Man Utd link
Ferdinand suggested the chances of Rashford returning to Old Trafford are slim. He believes the forward is looking forward and would prefer a permanent stay in Spain.
The former United defender also reflected on Rashford’s development at Manchester United. He wished the player well and welcomed his resurgence in form.
