About
Full Name: Marcus Rashford
Date of Birth: October 31, 1997
Age: 27
Place of Birth: Wythenshawe, Manchester, England
Height: 1.85 m (6 ft 1 in)
Position: Forward
Current Club: Manchester United
Shirt Number: 10
Early Life and Rise to Prominence
Marcus Rashford’s journey to football greatness began in the streets of Wythenshawe, Manchester. Raised in a single-parent household, Rashford’s early life was humble. His natural footballing talent, however, shaped his future. At seven, Rashford joined Fletcher Moss Rangers, a local football club with a reputation for developing top talent.
Manchester United scouts noticed Rashford’s skills, and by 11, he was in the club’s youth academy. His development was rapid. Rashford stood out with his intelligence, pace, and clinical finishing. By 2016, he made his senior debut for Manchester United in a Europa League match against Midtjylland. He scored twice, immediately becoming a fan favorite. Just days later, he made his Premier League debut against Arsenal, scoring another brace. This set the stage for a career filled with goals and accolades.
Club Career Journey
Manchester United (2015–Present)
Rashford’s breakthrough continued as he solidified his place in the senior team. Over the years, he became essential for Manchester United, especially after Wayne Rooney’s departure. Rashford’s versatility in attack saw him play across various positions: left wing, central striker, and right wing.
During a turbulent period for the club, Rashford’s performances were crucial. He scored vital goals in both domestic and European competitions. Known for his pace, dribbling, and ability to score from open play and set pieces, Rashford became Manchester United’s main attacking outlet. In the 2020-21 season, he set his best-ever goal tally of 21 goals across all competitions.
Loan to Aston Villa (2024–2025)
In 2024–2025, Rashford was loaned to Premier League side Aston Villa. The move aimed to offer Rashford more playing time and a fresh tactical environment. During his tenure, Rashford made 17 appearances, scoring 4 goals and providing 6 assists. His work ethic and technical ability were praised by Villa fans.
Rashford quickly adapted to Villa’s attacking style, characterized by quick transitions and wide play. His performances showed continued growth. By the end of the loan spell, he attracted interest from top clubs, including Manchester United, where he was expected to return in mid-2025.
International Career
Rashford’s international journey began at an early age. He represented England at various youth levels before making his senior debut in 2016. His rapid rise at Manchester United earned him a call-up to the senior England squad. Rashford was included in England’s UEFA Euro 2016 squad, becoming one of the youngest players in history to feature in a major international tournament.
Since then, Rashford has been a regular in the England squad. He played in the UEFA European Championship and FIFA World Cup campaigns. Rashford’s standout moment came in 2018, when he scored a crucial goal in England’s 2-0 win over Costa Rica in a World Cup warm-up match. He was also part of the squad that reached the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, where his performances impressed fans and pundits alike.
Rashford’s inclusion in the 2020 UEFA European Championship squad further solidified his role as one of England’s key attacking players. He became known for his big-game mentality, often stepping up in crucial moments for his country.
He was left out of the preliminary England squad for the Euro 2024 tournament.
Playing Style and Strengths
Rashford is known for his explosive pace and dribbling ability, making him a constant threat on counter-attacks. He excels at taking on defenders and creating scoring opportunities. His versatility allows him to play as a winger or a central forward, making him an invaluable asset for both club and country.
Rashford is skilled at operating in tight spaces and executing precise finishes. He consistently scores with powerful strikes from outside the box, composed finishes one-on-one, and intelligent positioning inside the box. In addition to his technical abilities, Rashford’s work rate and tactical discipline stand out. He plays with intensity off the ball, pressing high and contributing to his team’s defensive efforts when needed.
Rashford’s intelligence allows him to make runs into dangerous areas and exploit spaces left by defenders. He has an eye for the right pass, linking up well with teammates and creating chances for others.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Rashford’s life off the field is just as remarkable as his achievements on it. Growing up, he experienced food insecurity, which inspired him to fight against child hunger. In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Rashford launched a campaign to extend free school meals to children in need. His efforts led to a government U-turn, which implemented free school meals for vulnerable children during summer holidays.
Rashford’s activism earned him widespread praise, and in 2020, he received an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for his services to vulnerable children. He continues to advocate for social justice, using his platform to raise awareness about issues such as poverty, education, and equal opportunities.
Rashford is also an author. He published You Are a Champion, a book aimed at inspiring young people to achieve their goals and believe in their abilities. The book received acclaim for its positive message and empowerment of youth to pursue their dreams.
Recent Developments
As of 2025, Rashford’s future at Manchester United is uncertain. Reports suggest that he has requested a transfer, seeking a new challenge. Despite this, Rashford remains one of the most talented players in English football, with numerous clubs interested in acquiring his services. Whether he stays at Manchester United or moves to another club, his legacy as one of the top footballers of his generation is assured.
Career Statistics
| Competition |
Appearances |
Goals |
Assists |
| Premier League |
297 |
89 |
42 |
| FA Cup |
36 |
9 |
5 |
| EFL Cup |
25 |
16 |
6 |
| UEFA Champions League |
75 |
26 |
10 |
| UEFA Europa League |
3 |
0 |
0 |
| Total |
443 |
142 |
63 |
Achievements
- Premier League: 2019–20, 2020–21
- FA Cup: 2015–16, 2022–23
- EFL Cup: 2016–17, 2022–23
- UEFA Europa League: 2016–17
- FA Community Shield: 2016
- UEFA Nations League Third Place: 2019
- UEFA European Championship Runner-up: 2020
Conclusion
Marcus Rashford’s journey in football is defined by both his on-field brilliance and off-field activism. From a young boy in Wythenshawe to one of the best forwards in the world, Rashford has made an indelible mark on both Manchester United and the England national team. His legacy will not only be remembered for his footballing achievements but also for the positive impact he has made in society.
At just 27 years old, Rashford’s career is far from over. His next move, whether staying at Manchester United or exploring new opportunities, will be closely watched. Regardless of where he plays next, Marcus Rashford’s influence on the game and on social causes will continue to inspire future generations of footballers and advocates.