The justification for this shift in stance—less than six weeks ago, Deco explicitly named Rashford as a player Barcelona “liked”—is the preference for Liverpool forward Luis Díaz. The Colombia international is deemed to be more versatile, more experienced and more willing to sacrifice himself for the good of the team than Rashford.

With Nico Williams signing a new contract at Athletic Club and Liverpool rejecting interest in Diaz, Barcelona have shifted full focus to Rashford. What did Barcelona star Lamine Yamal say to his former teammate before his departure?

Aston Villa have confirmed that Marcus Rashford has returned to Manchester United following a short loan spell at the club last season. Unai Emery opted against triggering the £40million buy option in Rashford's contract, leaving his future up in the air ahead of pre-season.