Overview

• Marcus Rashford has been ruled out for the rest of the season due to a hamstring injury sustained shortly before Aston Villa’s FA Cup semifinal loss to Crystal Palace.
• Aston Villa and Manchester United are in discussions about recalling Rashford early from his loan, with medical teams coordinating his recovery plan.
• Villa holds a £40 million buy option for Rashford but remains undecided, while the player reportedly prefers a move to a Champions League club, with Barcelona being his top choice.
• Rashford is rehabilitating with the aim of being fit for England’s June international fixtures under manager Thomas Tuchel.
• The injury is a blow to Villa’s Champions League qualification hopes, potentially benefiting rivals like Newcastle United in the race for European spots.