Marcus Rashford's yacht trip includes a spot of fishing as Man Utd outcast enjoys free time away on Barcelona loan

There could be a long-term future for Rashford in Catalunya, with his loan agreement including a purchase option that can be triggered in the summer of 2026. The 27-year-old forward is staking an early claim to see another deal done, with a positive contribution being made to the collective cause with La Liga title holders.

Rashford’s ability to deliver end product in the final third has never been in doubt, with opposition defenders finding it difficult to contain his trickery and pace. His numbers did, however, dwindle after signing a lucrative contract extension in Manchester. That eventually led to him slipping down the attacking pecking order.

A productive loan spell was enjoyed at Aston Villa during the second half of the 2024-25 campaign, but no slate was wiped clean at Old Trafford. Instead, Ruben Amorim allowed Rashford to link up with Barcelona. He has registered two goals and five assists for the Blaugrana through nine appearances in all competitions. It is being reported that he wants to be involved in 30 to 40 goals over the course of the season.

That is an ambitious target, but Rashford forms part of a squad - alongside the likes of Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski - that create plenty of chances and like to operate on the front foot. That approach fits Rashford’s game and is allowing him to enjoy his football again.

Fun is also being found away from the field. Rashford was involved in Barcelona’s 2-1 Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain - teeing up the first goal of that contest for Ferran Torres - and wanted to unwind after suffering a dramatic European setback on home soil.

Rashford took to the water in a bid to relax, with some close friends being invited along for the ride. They indulged in a spot of fishing while soaking up some sunshine, with pictures of said excursion being posted on social media. Fans reacted by saying "my guy just enjoying Spain" and "proof that Man United cannot stop you from enjoying life".

It is still far too early for Barcelona to make a decision on Rashford’s future, but they are pleased with what they have seen so far. If impressive individual standards can be maintained, then there is every reason to believe that a permanent transfer will be pushed through.

Sporting director Deco told Mundo Deportivo: "What we thought he could bring to us, he’s bringing. He’s a very high-level player; he exploded very early, then he had great seasons at United, then he had more complicated management years with changes of coaches, and perhaps he also struggled because they demanded a lot of things from him there. But we’re happy with him; that’s the most important thing."

Rashford’s fine form has been recognised once again by England manager Thomas Tuchel. He has been included in the Three Lions’ squad for an upcoming friendly date with Wales and a 2026 World Cup qualifier with Latvia. Rashford will be looking to add to his tallies of 64 caps and 18 international goals in those fixtures, with favour being earned again at that level after spending several months in the wilderness when reaching the peak of his struggles at Manchester United.

Prior to heading off with his country, Rashford has one more outing at club level to take in. Barcelona are set to make a trip to Sevilla on Sunday. Hansi Flick’s side have moved back to the top of the Liga table, one point clear of Clasico rivals Real Madrid, and will be determined to offer a positive response to their Champions League reversal against PSG.