Following months of uncertainty and speculation about his future at Manchester United, Marcus Rashford has joined Aston Villa on loan for the remainder of the season.
The 27-year-old departs his boyhood club to embark on a new journey with Unai Emery, ending a period of inactivity in the North West.
Villa will pay a guaranteed minimum of three-quarters of Rashford’s £300k weekly salary, but there is potential for this figure to rise to 90% depending on performance-related bonuses.
Crucially, they will have the option to make the move permanent for £40 million in the summer.
An unfortunate end to the Marcus Rashford era in Manchester
It is a sad end to a relationship that has existed since 2005, with many Old Trafford faithful disenchanted with his departure.
But, an apparent unwillingness to conform to the requirements of Ruben Amorim has played a significant role, with United’s battle against profit and sustainability rules ultimately benefitting.
Per David Ornstein in the Athletic, Rashford underwent his medical on Sunday, with Villa eager to conclude matters quickly.
Emery is a respected tactician who values personal relationships with his players. Despite reservations from certain sections, he pushed for a deal with the Wythenshawe man.
The Spanish coach feels he can unlock the best from the troubled forward alongside the arrival of another European name in Marco Asensio.
Rashford has not featured for United since December 12, missing 13 fixtures in all competitions. Despite personal affiliation, this was not an advantageous standing between club and player.
Following a telling interview with Henry Winter shortly before Christmas, Marcus advised he was “ready for a new challenge”, setting the tone for an uncomfortable conversation with his unaware coach.
Having fallen to a 2-0 defeat against Wolves yesterday evening, Villa find themselves sitting eighth in the Premier League table, five places above United.
They are next in action against Tottenham Hotspur in the FA Cup on Sunday week before returning to Premier League action against Ipswich Town the following weekend.
Everyone at the Theatre of Red wishes Marcus the best in his career, and despite everything that has occurred, will remember the good times.
His 201 goal contributions in 426 appearances helped United earn two FA Cup victories, two League Cup titles and a memorable 2016-17 Europa League crown.
Furthermore, his 138 goals will solidify his legacy as the local boy who fulfilled a childhood dream at his Theatre of Dreams.
How do you feel about the departure of Rashford to a Premier League rival? Is this the correct decision for all?
Let us know in the comments or across our social channels.
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