Marcus Rashford: “I just want to play football” – Forward joins Aston Villa on loan from Manchester United

Marcus Rashford has completed a loan move to Aston Villa for the remainder of the season after falling out of favor at Manchester United. The 27-year-old forward released a brief 78-word statement expressing his excitement about the move and desire to get back on the pitch.

Rashford said: “I’m grateful to Manchester United and Aston Villa for making this loan deal happen. While I had interest from several clubs, choosing Aston Villa was straightforward. I admire their playing style this season and the manager’s ambitions. My goal is simply to play football, and I’m eager to get started. I wish everyone at Manchester United all the best for the rest of the season.”

The England international has not featured for United since being substituted against Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League. Villa will cover 75% of Rashford’s wages during the loan and have a £40 million option to make the move permanent in the summer.

Rashford will hope to quickly break into Unai Emery’s side and help Villa challenge for a top six finish as well as progress in the Champions League. Meanwhile, Manchester United continue to struggle, suffering their 7th home league defeat of the season against Crystal Palace last weekend.

This loan move gives Rashford a chance to reignite his career away from Old Trafford and potentially earn a permanent switch to Villa Park if he impresses during his spell with the Midlands club.