‘What I want is to stay at Barca’ – Rashford sends clear transfer message after strong start

Marcus Rashford has sent a clear message about his future after an impressive start to life at Barcelona, admitting his “ultimate goal” is to remain at the club beyond the end of the season following his loan move from Manchester United.

The England forward joined the Catalan giants on loan earlier this year after falling out of favour at Old Trafford under Ruben Amorim. Since arriving in Spain, Rashford has quickly become an important part of Barcelona’s title defence under head coach Hansi Flick.

Barcelona will end 2025 top of La Liga, four points clear of Real Madrid, having capitalised on their rivals’ dip in form.

The Blaugrana have won eight consecutive league matches since their El Clásico defeat to Xabi Alonso’s side in October, and Rashford has played a key role in that run. The forward has contributed goals and creativity, even while sharing minutes on the left flank with former Leeds winger Raphinha.

Barcelona also hold an option to make Rashford’s move permanent for £22m at the end of the season — an option Spanish reports suggest is now under serious consideration.

Speaking to Spanish outlet SPORT, Rashford made his intentions clear — even amid suggestions he may need to accept a pay cut to stay.

“What I want is to stay at Barca,” Rashford said. “It’s the ultimate goal, but it’s not the reason I’m training hard and giving my all. The purpose is to win. Barca is a huge, fantastic club, built to win titles.”

He also spoke warmly about settling into life in Catalonia.

“I’m settling in really well at the club and in the city. From the moment I arrived, I felt very welcomed,” he added.
“For me, the reason I’m here is to help the team win trophies. Last season was fantastic, but life moves very fast. The goal is to repeat those successes.”

Rashford believes Barcelona is the ideal environment for him to rediscover his best form, insisting the pressure at the club is a positive force.

“There is pressure here, but it’s not negative pressure — it’s the kind you crave,” he explained.
“I can’t be in a place where there aren’t high expectations. I’m in the perfect place and environment to continue my journey as a footballer.”

The forward also praised the culture under Flick, highlighting unity and clarity within the squad.

Flick has previously singled out Rashford’s mentality, recalling a moment when the forward accepted a rotation decision without complaint — a mindset the German coach publicly praised.

Barcelona return to league action on 3 January with a local derby away to Espanyol at the RCDE Stadium. Espanyol head into the clash in strong form after winning five straight matches.

For Rashford, the focus remains simple: performances, trophies — and turning his loan into something permanent.

Barcelona face a demanding start to 2026 as they resume La Liga action and push on multiple fronts. Rashford’s form between now and the summer will likely determine whether the club activates their purchase option.

For now, both player and club appear aligned — with Rashford thriving in an environment he believes brings out his best football.

Should Barcelona move quickly to make Rashford’s stay permanent — or wait until the summer?