Marcus Rashford’s ally takes swipe at Man Utd before transfer decision | Football | Sport

Barcelona forward Robert Lewandowski has indicated that Manchester United let down Marcus Rashford after the England star’s Old Trafford journey veered off track. The 28-year-old endured a torrid spell under Ruben Amorim before relations with the Portuguese manager ultimately broke down.

His United future looked all but finished when Amorim declared he would sooner select his 63-year-old goalkeeping coach for the substitutes’ bench, pointing to what he perceived as insufficient commitment from Rashford. The attacker hasn’t featured for United since December 2024 and was even stripped of his No.10 shirt, which was handed to Matheus Cunha during the summer.

Following a loan spell at Aston Villa in the latter stages of last season, Rashford demonstrated glimpses of his ability before switching to Barcelona in February, where he has thrived and recaptured his finest form. In Catalonia, he has captured the hearts of the Barca faithful, contributing 10 goals and registering 13 assists across 36 matches to date.

Yet his Barca colleague Lewandowski, who occupies the neighbouring spot to the England star in the changing room, feels United failed him by not offering proper support. “Marcus is the guy, if you give him confidence and he sees that you believe in him, he can give you back 200 per cent,” the Poland international told Sky Sports.

“He’s a very nice guy. We spoke because we are sitting in the dressing room beside [each other]. We also play ping-pong.

“I see that this guy is very kind, very nice guy but also because of this he needs someone standing behind him. If he does have this confidence he can really play his best football and on the best level.

“He has huge potential. He has everything. He has speed, he has technique, he has a shot, he has left foot, right foot, skills.”

Barcelona hold a £26million option to secure his services permanently, although Spanish reports indicate the club are attempting to negotiate a cheaper fee. While Rashford has expressed his desire to join Barcelona on a permanent basis this summer, boss Hansi Flick acknowledged last month that the striker’s long-term prospects at the club remain unclear.

“[Sporting director] Deco and I always speak about our team and what we can do,” the German stated when questioned about Rashford.

“Marcus’ performances have been really good until now, but we have to manage it. It’s Deco’s job and the club’s job to work on next season, so we have to wait.

“We still have plenty more time, there are many months, many days, many weeks ahead of us, and that’s how it is.”