Ollie Watkins has praised Marcus Rashford ahead of his appearance for England at this month’s World Cup.
After spending the second half of 2024/2025 together at Aston Villa, both forwards enjoyed an impressive spell at the club in 2025/2026.
Download the official CaughtOffSide app to get all the latest news and updates straight to your phone. above apple & Google play
Rashford and Watkins head into the World Cup on cloud nine
In fact, both strikers finished their respective seasons with silverware.
Want more catchoffside coverage? Add us Google recommended sources Add trusted news to your favorites list
Rashford, on loan from Manchester United, won the La Liga title with Barcelona in May and won the Spanish Super Cup in January.
His counterpart Watkins played a pivotal role in Villa’s run to becoming Europa League winners two weeks ago. Although he didn’t score in the final against Freiburg, he recorded five goals and two assists in the 15 games he played before lifting the trophy.
Speaking to Rio Ferdinand on the Rio Meets podcast before departing with the Three Lions, Watkins said of Rashford: “There were times, like against Paris Saint-Germain[in the Champions League]when he completely tore the team apart. I was on the sidelines thinking, ‘I really shouldn’t be here!’
“I knew Marcus was talented. He was.” can’t believe it. his ability is scary”
Rashford: Current state of play this summer
After the World Cup concludes, Rashford’s future will again come under the spotlight as Rashford, Barcelona and United look to resolve his uncertain situation.
The Blaugrana’s recent £70 million signing of Anthony Gordon has raised questions about whether Hansi Flick will have, or even need, the Carrington graduate at his disposal next term.
Reports have suggested that Barcelona could make a reduced offer of £13m to entice United to sell, but this is almost certain to be laughed off by INEOS.
United bosses will even argue that Rashford’s performances during his loan spell have increased his valuation over the £26m buy-out option included in last summer’s deal.
| Appearance | the goal | assist |
| 49 | 14 | 14 |
Rashford returns to all competitions Barcelona
But even if there is a change of manager in the Old Trafford dugout, the 28-year-old is still expected to have no future at his boyhood club.
United are keen to make a pure profit from the sale of Rashford and reinvest that money into reinforcements.
