Marcus Rashford was once Manchester United’s golden boy, a local lad who announced himself beneath Old Trafford’s floodlights with two goals against Midtjylland in 2016.

Three days later, he scored twice against Arsenal. Weeks afterwards, he stunned Manchester City at the Etihad, an 18-year-old announcing that the future had arrived.

There would be unforgettable nights: the stoppage-time penalty against Paris Saint-Germain in 2019, a double against Liverpool in 2018, and a remarkable 30-goal campaign under Erik ten Hag in 2022/23.

But football rarely follows a straight line.

After falling out of favour under Ruben Amorim, Rashford rebuilt his confidence on loan at Aston Villa before enjoying a successful season with Barcelona, scoring 14 goals as the Catalans claimed La Liga.

His return to Manchester United this summer offered another opportunity to reclaim his place, with former teammate Michael Carrick welcoming him back.

However, United’s season has spiralled. Sunday’s 3-0 defeat against Bournemouth extended their winless run to eight matches, leaving Carrick desperate for attacking inspiration ahead of Saturday’s trip to Chelsea.

Encouragingly, Kobbie Mainoo has returned to team training, and there has now been another development involving Rashford.

Manchester United receive positive Marcus Rashford update

According to journalist Sam Cohen, Rashford has resumed gym training at Manchester United’s Carrington training complex while recovering from an ongoing hip injury.

In an exclusive update on X, the reporter revealed that Rashford sustained the problem during the summer’s World Cup and has continued struggling with its effects.

The forward missed the Champions League defeat against Como and Sunday’s Bournemouth loss, having previously withdrawn from England duty while managing the same issue.

Although returning to the gym represents a positive step towards recovery, Rashford remains unavailable for selection, according to the report.

His availability against Chelsea therefore remains uncertain, with Carrick expected to provide further clarification during Thursday’s pre-match press conference.

🚨 Exclusive: Marcus Rashford has returned to gym training at Manchester United as he continues his recovery from a persistent hip injury sustained during the World Cup.

Rashford remains unavailable for selection due to the injury, but is continuing his rehabilitation at Carrington.

— Sam C (@SamC_reports) October 28, 2026