Marcus Rashford’s Manchester United comeback has been delayed after Michael Carrick confirmed the forward was not ready to feature against Leeds.
The England international had been tipped to make his first appearance for United since December 2024 during Saturday’s pre-season friendly in Dublin, but was left out of the matchday squad as the Reds played out a 1-1 draw at Croke Park.
Rashford only recently rejoined the group after being granted an extended break following England’s run to the World Cup semi-finals.
Carrick revealed the 28-year-old, along with Lisandro Martinez and Kobbie Mainoo, was being managed carefully ahead of the final stages of pre-season.
“Marcus, Licha and Kobbie aren’t quite ready yet,” Carrick told MUTV before kick-off. “We’re preserving them for this weekend.”
Rashford has endured an eventful 19 months away from Old Trafford.
After falling out of favour under Ruben Amorim, he spent the second half of the 2024-25 season on loan at Aston Villa before joining Barcelona on another temporary deal last season.
The Catalan club had the option to sign him permanently but instead strengthened their attack with Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi, paving the way for Rashford’s return to Manchester.
Despite speculation linking him with another move, Carrick suggested the forward remains firmly in his plans.
“He’s our player,” the United head coach told ITV. “He’s come back in great condition and gives us something different. I’ve known Marcus for a long time and we’re excited to have him back.”
United round off their pre-season schedule against AC Milan before opening the new Premier League campaign away to newly promoted Hull City.
