Rashford's first steps he will take as a Barcelona player after Man Utd and his first match

At 8:30am on Monday, July 21, 2025, Marcus Rashford’s footballing journey took a dramatic new turn as he arrived at FC Barcelona, determined to rebuild his career at the reigning Spanish champions.

Aged 27, Rashford—once a record-breaking prodigy at Manchester United—joins Barcelona in a season that will also see him competing for a place in England’s World Cup squad.

He steps into a club that, under Hansi Flick, just completed a treble-winning campaign and is hungry for more.

Rashford’s arrival was preceded by a thorough medical examination, as he had missed the final games of last season at Aston Villa (where he was on loan) and England’s international fixtures due to a lingering hamstring injury.

Barcelona’s medical staff report that while Rashford is now nearly recovered, they are also developing a tailored injury prevention plan, mindful that his explosive, speed-based profile makes him susceptible to recurring muscle issues.

Rashford will not immediately meet his new teammates; Barcelona’s first-team squad, who began preseason training on July 13, were given a rest day on Monday, so his first full sessions with the group are expected later in the week.

His official presentation—contract signing in President Joan Laporta’s office, followed by a media appearance—is scheduled for Wednesday afternoon, after a morning training session.

The format resembles the recent renewal event for Lamine Yamal, reported As.

On Thursday, Rashford is set to join the squad on their preseason tour of Asia, which begins in Japan and concludes in South Korea.

His first potential appearance in Barcelona colors could come as early as Sunday, July 27, in a friendly against Vissel Kobe.

If he plays, Rashford would become only the second Englishman to feature for Barcelona in 30 years, following Gary Lineker.

The number 19 shirt, recently vacated by Yamal, remains available, adding another layer to his symbolic fresh start.

This move represents a major opportunity for Rashford, who just weeks ago was recovering from injury and off the radar as a potential Barcelona signing.

The club’s need for attacking depth—especially on the left wing—and Flick’s enthusiasm for Rashford’s versatility and experience made the deal possible.

For Rashford, it is a chance not only to reignite his club career but also to make a late push for a central role with England ahead of the World Cup.

Rashford’s transfer comes after a challenging period at Manchester United, where he found himself outside Ruben Amorim’s plans and was loaned to Aston Villa last winter.

Despite a solid spell (four goals in 17 games), injury curtailed his season and left his future in flux. Barcelona’s deal—a season-long loan with an option to buy for around €30 million—offers flexibility for all parties and a low-risk move for the Catalan club.

With ambition, a World Cup looming, and a club eager to integrate him into a winning project, Marcus Rashford is poised to make the most of his “new opportunity” at Barcelona.

The stage is set for a fascinating chapter in a career that has already been full of highs, lows, and now, a tantalizing fresh start in one of Europe’s elite sides