According to reports, Rashford has replaced Doku as Carrick's left-wing starter following his return to Manchester United.

Rashford had hoped to continue playing at Barcelona. During his loan spell, the English winger's performances were inconsistent, though his goal contributions were impressive: 14 goals and 15 assists in 49 matches. Barcelona deemed the €30 million purchase clause too expensive, forcing the Manchester native to return home. After years of stagnation at Old Trafford and subsequent loans to Aston Villa and Barcelona, Rashford's future at the club was uncertain. However, few question the ability of the 28-year-old, whose contract runs through 2028. Early this season, he has shown his quality, even outperforming Doku, who appeared poised to play a prominent role for the Red Devils as Carrick's left-wing starter.

Doku started Manchester United's opening Premier League match against newly promoted Hull City, but the side trailed 0-2 at halftime, and he was substituted off. Rashford impressed after coming on in the second half and retained his place in the 5-2 victory over Ipswich in the following round. Last Sunday, Manchester United drew 2-2 away to Everton, with Rashford remaining on the pitch until the 70th minute, when he was replaced by Doku. The substitution sparked controversy, as demanding Red Devils supporters felt the team lost its attacking threat down the flanks as a result, prompting Carrick to explain. He stated that the change was due to the former Barcelona player experiencing slight physical discomfort, and he wanted Rashford fresh for the Champions League return against Shababeh FC.

The reality is that across these matches, Rashford has shown signs of recapturing his form and is currently one of few in the squad able to hold his own amid intense scrutiny. Paul Gascoigne has criticized him, but Peter Schmeichel praised him after the Everton match, saying: "Rashford is fantastic, he smells of roses. Welcome back, Marcus, we've missed you greatly."

His dribbling runs and explosive bursts, combined with his excellent athleticism and sprint speed, are evident in match footage. However, these have failed to impress the consistently demanding Jamie Carragher, who has criticized him for a lack of goals. While Rashford has made a solid start, he is yet to score or assist this season—a contrast to his strong output during his Barcelona loan.

Barcelona remains on his mind

Rashford has not forgotten, nor wants to forget, Barcelona and last season's experience, which affected him deeply. Recently, he tattooed the number "14" that he wore at Barcelona on his body. It was a number he had never worn before, and he chose it to honor former Barcelona player Thierry Henry.

He also tattooed the number "9," which is the number he has resumed wearing since returning to Manchester United (he also wore it at Aston Villa), and he is gradually regaining form wearing it now.

Traduzido por IA.

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