Marcus Rashford was prevented from playing a part in history, while Manchester United’s pursuit of a new transfer target has been complicated by reports the player has his sights set elsewhere
Following months of swift development at Barcelona, Marcus Rashford encountered a setback in Spain this week. That’s after the Manchester United loanee was forced to observe from the stands whilst his Catalan team-mates created history.
Meanwhile at Old Trafford, Ruben Amorim is working diligently in preparation for what could prove a pivotal January transfer window for the club. The Red Devils are experiencing an upturn in fortunes this season, largely attributed to the squad enhancements secured during the summer.
However, United may need to revise their winter strategy following reports suggesting one prospective signing would favour joining a direct competitor. MEN Sport reviews the latest developments surrounding Old Trafford in Monday’s media roundup.
Rashford misses milestone
Saturday represented a momentous occasion in Barcelona’s history as the club finally returned to the refurbished Camp Nou following a two-year absence. The Blaugrana demolished Athletic Club 4-0 in the inaugural fixture at the remodelled stadium, yet Rashford was conspicuously absent.
“Marcus Rashford will miss today’s match against Athletic Club due to flu,” confirmed the club an official statement. The news meant Rashford was excluded from participating in the historic unveiling of Barca’s revamped home ground.
Rashford had previously expressed his desire to feature at the revamped Camp Nou once it reopened. Speaking at an open training session earlier in November, he said: “It’s a very nice feeling. It’s a beautiful stadium and when it is full it’s going to be unbelievable.
“Camp Nou was always one of my favourite stadiums and one I wanted to play in. But to play on it for Barcelona is going to be a different feeling. I can’t wait to be on the pitch. I will enjoy it.”
The positive news is that Rashford will still have the opportunity to feature for Barca when they host their first sell-out crowd at the Camp Nou. Saturday’s match took place in front of approximately 45,000 spectators, with certain refurbishment work still underway.
Once the construction is finished and the ground is operating at full capacity, it’s anticipated to accommodate roughly 105,000 supporters. And considering Rashford’s influence under Hansi Flick so far this campaign, it’s likely he’ll be among the first names selected provided he’s available when that moment arrives.
Adeyemi favours Arsenal over United
One potential signing being linked with a switch to Old Trafford is Borussia Dortmund attacker Karim Adeyemi. Nevertheless, United’s prospects of securing the German have suffered a setback after reports emerged that he’d rather join Arsenal instead.
Despite a comprehensive revamp of their attacking line-up last summer, United are reportedly eyeing further forward reinforcements in 2026, with Adeyemi emerging as a potential target. This comes after talks over a new contract at Dortmund have reportedly hit a snag.
The 23-year-old’s current contract is set to expire in the summer of 2027, which could lead Dortmund to accept a reduced fee for his services. However, reports suggest the Black and Yellows are demanding £75million for their player, a figure believed to be higher than what United are prepared to pay.
This could provide Arsenal with an opportunity to swoop in if they see more value in securing his signature. On a positive note, United maintain a generally favourable relationship with Adeyemi’s agent, Jorge Mendes, who has facilitated the signings of clients such as Leny Yoro and Manuel Ugarte in recent years.
However, the reported £75m price tag becomes harder to justify given that Adeyemi has somewhat fallen out of favour under Niko Kovac. The forward was a regular starter for much of the first half of this season but has been relegated to the bench for their last three Bundesliga matches, netting just four times in 15 appearances across all competitions this term.
Sky Sports discounted Premier League and EFL package
Sky has slashed the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle for the 2025/26 season, saving members £336 and offering more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.
Sky will show at least 215 live Premier League games this season, an increase of up to 100 more.
