According to the latest report from The Sun, long-serving Manchester United staff have noted that Rashford's current return marks his most positive period of form.

Rashford did not feature against West Brom, but that did not stop Manchester United fans from chanting his name. For the first time in nearly two years, Rashford's song echoed from the Stretford End, ending with the lyrics "Just like Manchester, Rashford is red."

During Thursday night's warm-up, Rashford received the loudest applause from Old Trafford's most famous stand among all the substitutes. Fans had already applauded him following his positive performance in his comeback match against Ipswich two weeks earlier.

Midway through the second half, Carrick signaled to 19-year-olds Shea Lacey and Harry Amass that they would be the final two substitutes to enter the game. Carrick also briefly spoke with Rashford as he jogged back to the dugout.

Presumably, Carrick said something like, "We'll need you on Sunday," or words to that effect.

The Manchester derby is Carrick's biggest test in his eight months in charge.

Carrick said: "I am very pleased with Rashford, very pleased in many aspects.

"His performance already shows this. He was threatening again last game, unfortunately couldn't score, but he was certainly very threatening.

"I don't know what more I can say—we are just very happy to have him.

"He's done very well in many aspects and has quickly readjusted to the team.

"It's good to save Rashford's energy for the weekend."

Manchester United resting Rashford for the big match against Manchester City this weekend speaks volumes about his positive form since his return.

His mental state contrasts sharply with the 18-month period of ups and downs that followed his five-year contract signing in July 2023.

The chants from Manchester United fans in the midweek before the derby came at just the right time. For Wythenshawe-born Rashford, this match holds extra significance.

Manchester United insiders say Rashford has done everything possible since reporting to the training camp in Ireland in early August.

A source close to the club said: "Whether it's attitude or commitment, he has done the best he possibly can."

Long-serving staff have also noted that Rashford has been at his most positive and upbeat in years in his dealings with them. The 28-year-old is also one of the first to arrive at the training ground.

No one wants to be overly optimistic too soon. Rashford has only started two games so far, but he was Manchester United's best player against Everton, only to be substituted in the 70th minute—a decision that was somewhat puzzling.

Carrick's presence has made Rashford's return much smoother. Carrick was captain when Rashford made his debut, and the two were teammates for over two years, after which Carrick coached and managed him for three and a half years.

If Amorim were still at the club, Rashford's return would have been impossible. He only set foot in Manchester United's £50 million Carrington training facility, which opened last August, five weeks ago.

Manchester United dismissed a rumor that Rashford sang a welcoming song at Carrington, similar to 15-year-old JJ Gabriel.

Perhaps intentionally, since Rashford's return, there has been no fixed partner for him in the Manchester United dressing room.

Against West Brom, Haan and Mainoo were by his side.

Against Everton, Haan and Yoro were on his flanks; against Ipswich and Hull City, Tielemans and Mbeumo were alongside him.

Manchester United was surprised that Barcelona did not sign Rashford. At the time, he was valued at only £26 million, but Barcelona instead signed England teammate Anthony Gordon for £69.3 million. Rashford's former club Aston Villa opted for Garnacho, a left winger with whom he had also played.

But Rashford is home.

He joined Manchester United's academy at age seven and has been with the club for 21 years. His high-paying contract of £325,000 per week, valid until 2028, remains in effect. Rashford has also added his new "9" shirt number to his tattoos, which record the shirts he has worn for the club and England.

Rashford has every chance to represent England at the next European Championship and World Cup. Tuchel will announce the squad for the next four Nations League matches next week, and Rashford has always been favored by him.

Manchester United fans have embraced him again.

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