Rashford posts Barcelona farewell message as dream return goes up in smoke

Marcus Rashford has posted a farewell message on social media to Barcelona and their fans - making it clear that a permanent move has been overlooked.

The forward was out in the cold at Manchester United 12 months ago having clashed with Ruben Amorim and, after a brief loan at Aston Villa, was able to secure a blockbuster season-long move to the Catalan giants.

Inserted in the loan agreement was the chance to make the move to the Nou Camp permanent, but Barcelona opted against paying the £26million it would've took. Rashford had been open about the fact he would've relished the chance to play for the La Liga side beyond this season.

Rashford scored 14 times in 49 games, making some valuable contributions as he scored in an El Clasico win, with Barcelona retaining their La Liga title. However was never a guaranteed starter as the team had Lamine Yamal and Raphinha on the wings, which led to increased competition, and he's issued his thanks as he accepts a return to Manchester.

He wrote on his Instagram: “I’m very grateful to everyone at the club for making my time here such a positive and memorable experience. I've enjoyed every moment and will take many special memories with me. I wish the club and all its supporters the very best of luck and every success in the season ahead. Visca el Barca”

A permanent move to Barcelona became all the more challenging when they spent £70m on Anthony Gordon, who moved from Newcastle. Rashford's compatriot plays out wide and it suggested that the Catalans had other players on their radar given they could've had the United loanee for much less.

Their next target is Julian Alvarez with the Spanish champions needing to replace Robert Lewandowski, who was allowed to depart. The Argentine is at rivals Atletico Madrid, who are determined not to sell with any move likely to well exceed the £100m mark.

Returning to Old Trafford, where he has not played for well over 18 months, is made easier by the fact Amorim has been moved on. The Portuguese coach froze out Rashford and was public in his views, claiming he and the forward did not see football the same way.

Michael Carrick is now in charge and whilst that presents a new era for Rashford, there has been no clear indication yet over whether he will be introduced back into the fold. The likes of Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha were crucial in United's run of form that saw them finish third last season, and are likely ahead of Rashford in the pecking order.

Since making his debut in 2016 Rashford has scored 138 times in 426 games for his boyhood club.