Marcus Rashford is set to begin pre-season at Manchester United after Barcelona passed on the option to sign him permanently.

What happened?

Rashford was loaned out to Aston Villa for six months in January last year, before earning a move to Barcelona the following summer.

Why it matters for Marcus Rashford

The Spanish champions' decision not to sign Rashford permanently has led to speculation about his future, with Anthony Gordon's £70million signing making a return to Camp Nou unlikely.

Harry Maguire, Rashford's long-time teammate, says he'd be welcomed back with open arms if he stays and fights for his Manchester United future.

What comes next?

Rashford could yet perform a dramatic U-turn and resurrect his United career under new management with Michael Carrick in charge.

Maguire told The Rest Is Football: 'I have an amazing relationship with Marcus and had some great times with him over the years.'

He knows what a wonderful player Rashford can be, and it's up to the club and Rashford to find a mutual agreement.

Rashford did his reputation little harm with an eye-catching performance in England's 2-0 win over Panama on Saturday night, June 28.

The Three Lions booked their place in the last 32 as group winners and will be strong favourites to progress at the expense of DR Congo.

Maguire was impressed with Rashford's display, saying: 'I think he was so direct and positive with everything that he did.'

Rashford put four or five crosses in the box in the first 10 minutes, and Maguire believes he's unstoppable on his day.

Rashford's future remains uncertain, but Maguire's comments suggest he'd be welcomed back at Manchester United.

The versatile forward still maintains a number of Premier League suitors, but a return to United could be on the cards.

Rashford's performance against Panama has done his reputation no harm, and he'll be looking to build on that in the coming weeks.

The England international has a big decision to make about his future, but for now, he's focused on the World Cup.

Maguire's comments will be seen as a boost to Rashford, who has been linked with a number of clubs this summer.

The Manchester United captain believes Rashford can thrive at United with Carrick at the helm.

Rashford's next move will be closely watched, but for now, he's concentrating on helping England progress in the World Cup.

The 28-year-old's career appeared certain to lie away from Old Trafford, but Maguire's comments have thrown a spanner in the works.

Rashford will be hoping to build on his performance against Panama and help England reach the latter stages of the tournament.

The World Cup is a big stage, and Rashford will be looking to make a big impact.

Maguire's support will be a boost to Rashford, who has been through a lot in recent months.

The Manchester United forward will be hoping to put his future to the back of his mind and focus on the task at hand.

Rashford's performance against Panama was impressive, and he'll be looking to repeat that in the coming weeks.

The England international has a lot to offer, and Maguire believes he can be a key player for United.

Rashford's future may be uncertain, but one thing is for sure - he's a talented player who can make a big impact.

The World Cup is a big opportunity for Rashford to showcase his skills, and he'll be hoping to take it with both hands.