Gerard Piqué reveals which part of Marcus Rashford’s Barcelona spell has ‘surprised’ him

United’s transfer plans next summer hinge heavily on whether Barcelona activate Rashford’s £25m option to buy — a decision that would solve nearly £40m worth of financial uncertainty for the Premier League side. Every strong performance from Rashford is now quietly celebrated at Old Trafford, not because they expect him back, but because the long-term relationship between player and club has clearly run its course.

Piqué, speaking to Moeve Futbol, was asked which player has surprised him most this season, either positively or negatively. His answer will reassure those at United hoping for a smooth sale.

“Rashford, I think he had a very good start,” Piqué said. “Now let’s see how it ends, or how it continues. He scored both goals against Newcastle. He has produced a lot in terms of numbers; he has contributed a lot.”

Given Piqué’s enduring influence in Barcelona’s orbit, his endorsement offers a subtle boost to the narrative around Rashford’s time in Catalonia — and may help nudge the club towards triggering the clause.

Manchester United have little leverage in Rashford negotiations

Despite their desire to make the deal permanent, United hold virtually no leverage. Barcelona could simply decline the option and push for another loan, fully aware that Rashford will not return to Old Trafford and that United cannot realistically sell him elsewhere.

The forward is under contract until 2028, creating a difficult scenario for United as they attempt to offload one of the final big-money agreements left from the Glazer era. With Rashford’s role in Barcelona’s squad expected to diminish, the risk for United is obvious: they may be forced to accept whatever terms Barcelona dictate just to move him on.

The club’s priority is clear — get Rashford out of the door permanently. But without bargaining power, the next step in his future depends almost entirely on Barcelona’s willingness to meet the existing terms, or on United’s readiness to compromise yet again.