rio ferdinand has made his view clear on Marcus Rashford’s Barcelona future after the forward scored again in a 2-1 win over Atletico Madrid. The former Manchester United defender believes the reported £26million deal would be an “absolute robbery” if Barcelona choose to complete it. Rashford remains on loan from Manchester United, and his next step is still unsettled.
Ferdinand backs the Barcelona move
Ferdinand used his YouTube channel to praise Rashford after the latest goal and to argue that Barcelona would be getting exceptional value if they move to sign him permanently. He said the forward’s strike showed the level people expect from him and added that the “page has turned” from his Manchester United spell.
He also made it clear that he sees Rashford moving forward rather than returning to Old Trafford. Ferdinand said he believes the player wants Barcelona, and he wants that outcome to happen for him personally. In his words, if Barcelona get Rashford for the reported fee, it would be a “steal. ”
Rashford’s form keeps the pressure on
Rashford has made 40 appearances across all competitions for Barcelona and has scored 11 goals while adding 13 assists. He opened the scoring in the victory over Atletico Madrid before Robert Lewandowski struck the winner late on. That result helped Barcelona extend their lead at the top of the La Liga table.
Hansi Flick has also publicly praised the forward’s adaptation. The Barcelona coach said Rashford has “adapted” and noted that he is doing things well, including in his defensive pressing. Flick added that Barcelona will need that work against Atletico because of the danger they pose on the wings.
Flick has also said he was “very happy” with Rashford after the Atletico result, while stopping short of discussing the player’s long-term future. The coach stressed that the focus must stay on matches through the end of the season.
What Ferdinand means for Manchester United
Ferdinand’s comments underline how far Rashford’s situation has shifted since leaving Manchester United on loan. The forward has not played for United since December 2024, and his absence from the club picture has been strengthened by the strong run he is putting together in Spain.
One detail still hanging over the story is Barcelona’s decision on the permanent option. The club hold a reported £26million buy clause, but it is not yet clear whether they will trigger it. Ferdinand’s public support adds pressure to a decision that already carries financial and sporting weight.
Rio Ferdinand and the next step
The wider picture remains simple: Rashford is performing, Barcelona are evaluating, and Manchester United are waiting on the outcome. For now, rio ferdinand has framed the move as a bargain if Barcelona act, and he has left little doubt about where he thinks the forward belongs next.
As the season moves toward its closing stages, the rio ferdinand message is likely to echo again if Rashford keeps producing in key matches. The next major development will come when Barcelona decide whether the loan becomes permanent or the uncertainty continues.
