'World on his shoulder' - Ryan Giggs believes Marcus Rashford had to escape pressure of Man Utd to save career and admits recalled England star may not return to Old Trafford

Rashford, who struggled for form and consistency under Ruben Amorim, was allowed to leave on a six-month loan deal to Villa Park. The move has rejuvenated his sinking career, with the forward registering four assists in nine matches since making the switch.

United legend Ryan Giggs, who worked with Rashford during the forward's early years, reminisced about first spotting Rashford’s talent and how he was immediately deemed too good to be overlooked.

In an interview with Daily Mail,he said: "I worked with Marcus and I remember going over with Louis to watch him train with the reserves. It was one of those moments where you just can't leave him out of the team and he was a breath of fresh air."

However, he acknowledged that Rashford has struggled to play with the same freedom at Old Trafford that once made him one of England’s most exciting young talents.

"Looking from the outside, it does look like he's got the world on his shoulders and he's forgotten what it's like to play with freedom," he said. "It's great to see him doing well at Villa. I don't know whether he'll come back."

While United are said to be planning for Rashford’s reintegration next season, reports suggest the 27-year-old is eager to remain at Aston Villa beyond the 2024-25 campaign. According to The Sun, Rashford sees Villa as the ideal club to rebuild his career under Emery, with a long-term future in the West Midlands more appealing than a return to United.

Rashford’s resurgence at Aston Villa has already started to pay dividends at the international level as England manager Thomas Tuchel handed Rashford a starting spot in the team for their World Cup qualifier against Albania. With The Three Lions looking to start their qualifying campaign strongly, Rashford has a golden opportunity to prove his value to Tuchel and stake his claim for a regular place in the squad.