Rashford's Man Utd future depends on key factor he showed in Barcelona performances

Marcus Rashford could become a key player for Manchester United but it depends on one key factor about his attitude which he showed at Barcelona.

Only a few weeks ago a return to Old Trafford appeared out of the question, after Barcelona decided against turning his successful loan spell into a permanent move, it seemed like United would seek a permanent move elsewhere.

But now it looks like Michael Carrick has not given up on Rashford just yet and is looking at how he could reincorporate him into the squad.

The view among the coaching staff now is that there is a role for the England international at the club.

But the key depends on his attitude, he left United having lost his way and his motivation. He appeared like he was going through the motions and there was a lot of talk about his off-field life.

However since leaving United and especially at Barcelona he showed that he had rediscovered his desire to play and crucially his time at the Catalan club was marked by his effort.

Continually the Barca coach Hansi Flick commented on how hard Rashford was training and the German did not want him to go saying this week "I will miss him".

Whether Rashford remains at Old Trafford is still likely to depend on the transfer market, but if he does stay, there is a strong argument that United could benefit from giving him another opportunity.

For all the criticism Rashford has received over the past few seasons, his quality has never really been in doubt.

The academy graduate has scored more than 140 goals for Manchester United and has repeatedly delivered in the biggest matches, producing decisive moments against Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea.

Players with that level of experience and proven ability are not easy to replace.

Carrick's Manchester United have shown greater emphasis on quick transitions, vertical passing and attacking with pace whenever possession is regained.

Those are situations in which Rashford has traditionally produced his best football.

At his peak, few Premier League defenders could live with his acceleration when attacking space behind the opposition defence.

If United continue to play with quick attacks as they are sure to do, Rashford's strengths could once again become a major weapon.

United's attacking options have been strengthened this summer, with Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha providing far greater competition for places.

Rather than being expected to carry the attack on his own, Rashford would be one of several high-quality forwards competing for minutes.

That competition could help bring the best out of a player who has often thrived when challenged.

One of Rashford's biggest assets remains his versatility.

He is capable of playing on either wing, through the middle as a striker or in a more fluid front three.

That flexibility would allow Carrick to rotate his attacking options across a demanding campaign while maintaining pace and directness in the final third.

Perhaps the biggest advantage for United would be Rashford's motivation.

After Barcelona declined to make his move permanent, the England international has every reason to prove he still belongs at the highest level.

Players returning after disappointing transfers often produce some of the strongest football of their careers.

If Rashford can channel that disappointment positively, United could reap the rewards.

There are, of course, significant obstacles.

Rashford remains one of the club's highest earners, while United would likely still consider a substantial transfer offer if one arrived. United remain open to a sale under the right circumstances, even as Carrick explores a route back into the squad.

But from a purely football perspective, reintegrating Rashford is far from the worst option available.

He knows the club, understands the expectations of playing for United and has already shown he can produce elite performances in the Premier League.