Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong has publicly endorsed Marcus Rashford to stay at the club beyond his current loan, as uncertainty continues over the forward’s future with Manchester United.
Speaking in an interview with Diario Sport, De Jong said he would be delighted if Rashford moved to Barcelona permanently and insisted the England international should remain in Catalonia.
Rashford joined Barcelona on loan from Manchester United this season under head coach Hansi Flick. The 28-year-old has made 46 appearances across all competitions, recording 13 goals and 14 assists in 2,378 minutes on the pitch.
De Jong told Sport that Rashford’s contributions have been clear in limited playing time. “In the minutes he’s played, he’s given us a lot: goals, assists, depth. He is a fast player who threatens rival defences,” De Jong said. He added that Rashford’s speed forces opposing back lines to drop deeper, creating space for Barcelona’s midfielders.
Barcelona’s option to buy Rashford is set at £26 million, but reports indicate the club prefers to negotiate a second loan or a reduced fee with Manchester United.
Rashford, who is reportedly willing to take a pay cut from his current wages, has said staying at the club would be an honour. Both players were back in training Wednesday ahead of Barcelona’s final LaLiga fixture against Valencia at Mestalla on Saturday, May 23, 2026.