After weeks of speculation, Marcus Rashford has officially joined Aston Villa on loan from Manchester United until the end of the season.
According to reports, the deal includes an option for Villa to make the transfer permanent, with the club covering a substantial part of Rashford’s wages along with performance-related bonuses.
However, if Villa do not exercise the option, the 27-year-old will return to Old Trafford in the summer.
Rashford took to Instagram to express his excitement about the move, saying:
“I would like to thank Manchester United and Aston Villa for making this loan deal happen.”
“I was lucky to have a few clubs approach me, but Aston Villa was an easy decision—I really admire the way that Aston Villa have been playing this season, and the manager’s ambitions.”
“I just want to play football and am excited to get started. I wish everyone at Manchester United all the best for the rest of the season.”
Why Did Rashford Leave United?
Ruben Amorim,(Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
Marcus Rashford had been frozen out of United’s squad since their Europa League win over Viktoria Plzen on Dec. 12, with manager Ruben Amorim stating that the forward “has to change” to regain his place.
The final straw appeared to be the England International’s omission from the squad for the Manchester derby on Dec. 15, after which he openly admitted he was “ready for a new challenge.”
How Did Villa Win the Race?
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery (L) gestures next to set-piece coach Austin MacPhee during the Premier League match against Everton FC. (Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images)
Despite interest from Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund, Villa emerged as the best financial and sporting option.
Barcelona’s financial struggles made a deal complicated, while Dortmund backed out due to Rashford’s £350,000-per-week wage demands.
With Jhon Durán’s exit to Al Nassr, Villa manager Unai Emery sought an experienced forward, and Rashford fits the bill perfectly as the club pushes for a top-four finish and Champions League glory.
End of the Road for Rashford at United?
England forward, Marcus Rashford.
Having been at United for 20 years, Rashford’s temporary exit could mark the beginning of the end for his time at Old Trafford.
With Villa offering him a fresh start, will he reignite his career and prove United wrong?
