Fans think Marcus Rashford sent a hidden message to Manchester United in his first interview at Aston Villa following his transfer.
Villa have completed the signing of Rashford, securing his services on an initial loan deal until the end of the season.
The deal includes an option to buy him in a permanent transfer for £40 million.
A minimum of 75 per cent of his wage will be covered by Villa, who have not paid a loan fee to Man United.
Advert
Several clubs were keeping tabs on the 27-year-old, including Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund.
But Rashford admitted Villa's ambition made a move to the Midlands club an attractive proposition.
He also made a comment that has not gone unnoticed among Man United supporters on social media.
The star forward explained how it's 'only a short-term' move to Villa, with fans convinced he'll return to Old Trafford next summer.
"It’s a club that’s in a good position in the league, and they’re pushing to get higher. Still in the Champions League, a good, ambitious manager and great talent in the squad," he told the club's official website.
"I’ve had to choose somewhere where I feel my style of football is suited to, and can help them and help me rediscover and improve as a player."
He added: "Obviously it’s only short-term I’m here, so I want to make the most of my time here, and the only way to do that is by using my attributes and my skillset to help the team."
Rashford's 'short-term' claim got people online talking.
One X user wrote: "That last sentence sounds like he’s prepared to only be here for 6 months. Still though, let’s hope he performs and potentially he can stay."
A second said: "'It’s only short term'..."
A third argued: "The ending to the interview worries me. I don’t want Aston Villa to make players better to then go back to there parent club."
Rashford joins Villa, having scored seven goals in 24 appearances across all competitions this season.
Topics: Marcus Rashford, Fan Reactions, Aston Villa, Manchester United, Football
Nasir Jabbar