Manchester United were rocked in December by Marcus Rashford’s admitted intention to depart Old Trafford.
Rashford told Henry Winter that he wanted a new challenge, and this sparked a January loan race in which half of Europe submitted their interest.
It was thought that Rashford was dreaming of moving to Barcelona, but this deal was impossible due to La Liga registration restrictions.
With a huge wage package, Rashford’s options were limited, and therefore a Premier League move was soon turned to.
Now, Rashford’s move to Villa Park has been made official.
Rashford made no secret of his desire to exit the club, and posting on his Instagram not long after the announcement he thanked both clubs for arranging the loan.
“I would like to thank Manchester United and Aston Villa for making this loan deal happen.
“I was lucky to have a few clubs approach me but Aston Villa was an easy decision – I really admire the way that Aston Villa have been playing this season, and the managers’ ambitions. I just want to play football and am excited to get started.
“I wish everyone at Manchester United all the best for the rest of the season.”
After Rashford’s message, his United teammates past and present were responding to the news.
Jadon Sancho led the responses, having also left United on loan this season. The Chelsea winger wrote: “He’s back!” which was followed with a heart emoji.
United legend David de Gea also commented, writing: “The wonderful kid”, followed by a purple heart and a flexing emoji.
Ethan Wheatley responded with a praise emoji. While Aaron Wan Bissaka commented with a heart and a salute emoji. Sergio Reguilon also commented with a pair of heart emojis.
In terms of current players, Joshua Zirkzee was quick to send Rashford a message, writing: “My bro”, with a heart emoji.
