'Particularly sharp!' - Michael Carrick sends exciting Marcus Rashford warning ahead of Man Utd opener

Carrick has delivered a highly positive update regarding the fitness of Rashford. The England international was one of the last players to return to the squad following his summer break but has immediately impressed the coaching staff. The 28-year-old attacker is working hard to build his match fitness ahead of a demanding campaign.

The Red Devils are currently finalising their preparations for the 2026-27 Premier League season, with expectations understandably high under their new permanent boss. With the new season rapidly approaching, Carrick is carefully managing his squad's physical load. However, Rashford's impressive physical condition has already caught the manager's eye during recent training sessions at Carrington.

Carrick was quick to praise Rashford's physical levels despite his slightly delayed return to the training ground. The manager believes the modern football calendar means players rarely lose their baseline fitness during the short off-season.

"Yeah, he's come back really well. Very well, you know," Carrick said on the club's official website. "I think the way it is now and not having so much time off really, and looking at three weeks, maybe just under three weeks, give or take. Marcus has come back particularly bright, particularly sharp, as I've said, and looks really good."

While Rashford's sharpness is a major boost, Carrick stressed the importance of carefully managing player workloads. The gruelling nature of the English football calendar means avoiding early burnout is absolutely crucial for long-term success.

He added: "It's certainly the case of managing it coming back in though and being sensible, knowing it's a whole season for all the players to deal with. So in terms of the team this week going into next week as well, getting that balance right with all the group."

With Rashford ready to contribute, United are now fully focused on their upcoming domestic duties. The Red Devils will travel to face newly-promoted Hull City in their highly anticipated Premier League opener on Saturday.

If Rashford can translate his promising training ground form into competitive action, United will be confident of securing a crucial opening-day victory. All eyes will be on the forward to see if he can hit the ground running.