Rashford told Villa move hasn't worked out and 'he should return to Man Utd'

Marcus Rashford has been urged to cut short his loan spell at Aston Villa and return to Manchester United, with a Red Devils legend insisting the move away from Old Trafford hasn’t delivered the expected revival.

The 27-year-old forward left his boyhood club in January after falling out with new United boss Ruben Amorim, joining Villa on a temporary deal with an option to buy for £40million in the summer.

Rashford has shown flashes of quality since arriving at Villa Park, registering four assists in nine appearances across all competitions under Unai Emery.

His upturn in form even earned him a recall to the England squad under new manager Thomas Tuchel for the March international break.

However, former United captain Bryan Robson believes the move has not fully reignited Rashford’s career and has called for him to come back to Manchester to rediscover his best form.

Speaking exclusively to Express Sport, Robson said: “Marcus has unbelievable talent and should be doing better for Manchester United. He shouldn’t even be moving on to Aston Villa.

"I’ve seen glimpses of what he can do there, but it drives me crazy that people say he’s suddenly enjoying his football again. He’s got the ability to be a star at United, and I’d love to see him come back and prove himself under Amorim.”

Villa’s strong season, including a push in the Champions League knockout stages, has given Rashford a platform to shine, but Robson argues it’s not enough.

“He’s got teammates grafting for him at Villa, sure, but he had that at United too when he was at his peak. This loan feels like a step sideways, not forward. United were right to let him go temporarily – it’s shown he needs to fight for his place.”

Rashford’s departure from United came after a turbulent 18 months, with his form dipping significantly since his 30-goal haul in the 2022/23 season.

Amorim’s arrival in November 2024 saw the pair clash, leading to Rashford’s exit. Sir Jim Ratcliffe, United’s co-owner, recently backed the decision, telling BBC Sport: “It’s probably a good thing for him to move out of Manchester.”

However, Robson’s comments suggest a redemption arc could still be on the cards at Old Trafford. “He’s got three years left on his contract after this season. Villa might sign him for £40m, but I’d rather see him back at United, proving the doubters wrong. He’s too good to settle for this.”

Aston Villa, meanwhile, are weighing up their options. Sources indicate they are pleased with Rashford’s contributions but remain undecided on a permanent move.

The forward’s hefty £325,000-a-week wages could complicate negotiations, with United potentially needing to subsidize a deal if Villa don’t meet his salary demands.

For now, Rashford’s future hangs in the balance. Will he heed Robson’s call and fight for his United legacy, or cement a new chapter at Villa Park? Only time will tell.