Manchester United have handed Marcus Rashford a new squad number ahead of the 2026/27 season as the England forward returns to the club following his loan spell at Barcelona.
Rashford spent the 2025/26 campaign on loan at the Spanish giants, but Barcelona have opted not to activate the option to make his move permanent, leaving the 28-year-old back at Old Trafford.
Upon his return, United have assigned Rashford the No.14 shirt, a change from the No.10 jersey he previously wore at the club.
Rashford’s former No.10 shirt is now occupied by new signing Matheus Cunha, who joined United during the summer transfer window.
The decision to give Rashford a new squad number is being viewed as a sign that the club is prepared to reintegrate him into the first-team squad rather than immediately seeking another loan or transfer.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported that United have deliberately given Rashford the No.14 shirt as a message of trust and an indication that he remains part of the team.
“Manchester United decide to give Marcus Rashford new squad number as message to trust him and include as part of the team,” Romano said.
He added that Rashford would wear No.14 and had begun travelling with the squad.
Rashford’s return comes amid continued uncertainty over his long-term future at Old Trafford. United are reportedly open to offers for the forward, but unless a major European club submits an acceptable bid, he could remain with the club for the new season.
The new No.14 shirt could therefore mark the beginning of a fresh chapter for Rashford at United as he looks to regain his place and establish himself under the club’s new plans for the 2026/27 campaign.
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