Rashford’s Response Speaks Louder Than Words as Cunha Takes Iconic Jersey
Sometimes, silence says it all — and sometimes, a single image can make more noise than a full-blown press conference. That’s exactly what happened when once the proud bearer of Manchester United’s No. 10 shirt, posted a photo of himself grinding in the gym, just hours after Matheus Cunha was handed the prestigious number at Old Trafford.
The message? Crystal clear: Marcus Rashford isn’t sulking. He’s not giving up. He’s gearing up.
A New Era: Cunha In, Marcus Rashford Edging Out
When Manchester United confirmed the arrival of Matheus Cunha from Wolves in a £62.5 million deal, fans were understandably curious about what shirt number the Brazilian forward would take. That curiosity turned into surprise — and, for some, confusion — when it was revealed that Cunha would be wearing the No. 10.
That’s not just any number at Manchester United. It’s the shirt that has graced the backs of legends like Wayne Rooney, Ruud van Nistelrooy, and more recently, Marcus Rashford. For Rashford to lose that number symbolized more than just a numerical switch — it hinted at a changing of the guard.
But Marcus Rashford wasn’t about to make a fuss. Instead, he took to X (formerly Twitter) and uploaded a new profile picture — a shot of him in the gym, muscles flexed, mid-workout, holding a weight. No long-winded caption, no dramatic goodbye. Just the simple hashtag: #NewProfilePic.
What Does This Mean for Rashford’s Future?
The writing may be on the wall. Sources close to Old Trafford suggest Marcus Rashford is seeking a fresh start, and it appears that start may come away from Manchester. Though still just 27,Marcus Rashford has seen a turbulent few seasons, from injuries to fluctuating form, and now the loss of a shirt number he once cherished.
His dream move? Barcelona. It’s no secret that the England international has long admired the Catalan giants and would relish the chance to test himself in La Liga. However, with Barça’s financial situation still delicate and their focus seemingly elsewhere, that move remains in the “maybe” column.
In the meantime, Marcus Rashford is staying ready. His message to clubs, fans, and perhaps even his critics is this: he’s fit, focused, and hungry.
The Significance of the No. 10 at United
To truly understand why this moment resonates, you have to grasp what the No. 10 means at Manchester United. It’s more than just a jersey. It’s a symbol of creativity, responsibility, and leadership. It’s the number worn by players expected to change games, lift fans out of their seats, and carry the club through difficult moments.
Rashford taking on that number a few seasons ago felt like a homegrown star being handed the keys to the kingdom. A local lad from Wythenshawe, rising through the academy to claim one of the most historic numbers in world football — it was a fairy tale.
But football moves fast. And with Cunha’s arrival, United clearly felt it was time for a change.
Rashford’s Rollercoaster Journey
Let’s not forget what Marcus Rashford has given this club. Bursting onto the scene in 2016 with a brace against Midtjylland and then Arsenal just days later, he became a beacon of hope for a United side in transition. He played with heart, flair, and fearlessness. Off the pitch, he became a national hero, advocating for children’s meals and poverty reform with the kind of maturity rarely seen in players his age.
But form is fickle, and football is ruthless. Injuries and a lack of consistency saw Marcus Rashford’s influence wane. Under Erik ten Hag, he had moments of brilliance, but they were too often followed by games where he drifted.
United’s decision to bring in Cunha and immediately hand him the No. 10 signals a desire to move in a new direction — one perhaps less sentimental, more results-driven.
The Villa Chapter That Never Was
Before Cunha’s signing, there were whispers of Marcus Rashford potentially staying in the Premier League, with Aston Villa showing strong interest. A £40 million move was reportedly on the table, but the Midlands club eventually passed. Marcus Rashford won’t be heading to Villa Park, and with that door closed, his options are narrowing.
Still, there’s little doubt he’ll find a new home. Whether in England, Spain, or elsewhere, a player of Marcus Rashford’s pedigree — still in his prime years — won’t be short of suitors.
The Bigger Picture: What’s Next for Marcus Rashford?
As pre-season begins and clubs finalize their summer business, Rashford finds himself at a crossroads. With the 2026 World Cup just a year away, and Thomas Tuchel expected to take the reins for England, the pressure is on for Rashford to find form, fast.
He’ll want regular minutes, preferably in a team that plays to his strengths — quick transitions, space to run into, and freedom to drift inside. That could be abroad, but it might also be a lesser Premier League side willing to make him their main man.
Either way, Rashford seems determined to prove he’s far from finished. That gym photo might have looked simple, but for those who know football, it said a lot. He’s working. He’s waiting. And he’s not backing down.
Cunha’s Arrival: A Statement of Intent
As for Matheus Cunha, being handed the No. 10 is both a compliment and a challenge. The Brazilian forward will know the history attached to that number at Old Trafford, and he’ll also be aware of the expectations. At £62.5 million, fans won’t be patient for long.
But Cunha has qualities United have lacked — directness, flair, and a bit of South American swagger. If he hits the ground running, United’s gamble will look inspired. If not, questions about displacing Marcus Rashford might grow louder.
Final Thoughts
Football is full of moments that seem small but echo loudly. Marcus Rashford losing the No. 10 shirt could’ve been a low point, but instead, he’s turned it into fuel. Whether it leads to Barcelona, another top European club, or even a Premier League renaissance, one thing is clear: Marcus Rashford isn’t done writing his story.
He’s just turned the page.
