It’s fair to say Manchester United have had a disappointing season. The team was touted as title contenders at the start of the season, but currently find themselves in a battle just to make Champions League.
However, one shining light has been the emergence of forward Marcus Rashford. The 18 year-old burst onto the scene in February this year, scoring 2 goals on his debut. He has been a scoring machine ever since, and has been compared to superstars Patrick Kluivert and Thomas Müller at his age.
Marcus signed his first professional contract in July 2014; a three year deal which pays him a modest salary of £1,500 a week. He also receives £5,000 for every first team appearance. His contract was negotiated with the help of his family.
The club are looking to offer Rashford an improved contract now he has become a vital member of the first team. He has held off negotiations until the end of season, and until he signs with an agent. With this, the big guns are circling.
Leading the pack is Jorge Mendes, famous for representing superstar Cristiano Ronaldo and Angel Di Maria. He is also being courted by Aidy Ward, who orchestrated Raheem Sterling’s deal at Manchester United’s cross town rivals City. Wayne Rooney’s agent Paul Stretford is also in the mix. Rounding out the illustrious group is Stellar, the agency that represents Real Madrid’s Gareth Bale.
To put this in perspective, it is akin to CAA, Wasserman, IMG and Octagon vying for his services. Representation royalty, if you will.
Rashford is expected to sign an improved contract in the vicinity of £15,000 per week, in line with what someone of his stature and age earns. Tottenham’s Dele Alli, a player of comparable skill at his age, only recently signed an improved contract after starting on relatively similar terms.
The agent he ultimately ends up choosing will also help Marcus navigate the endorsement field. He currently has a boot deal with Nike, but that contract is certain to be re-negotiated.