Marcus Rashford’s move to Aston Villa has triggered a massive pay cut in his Nike endorsement deal, showcasing the financial impact of club transfers.
In a shocking turn of events, Marcus Rashford has completed a move from Manchester United to Aston Villa, but the switch has reportedly caused a significant financial setback. The 27-year-old forward left United in the final days of the January transfer window after falling out of favour with manager Ruben Amorim.
Aston Villa has agreed to pay between 75% to 90% of Rashford’s £315,000-a-week salary, ensuring he continues earning a substantial wage. However, despite this financial security, Rashford is set to lose a huge chunk of his Nike sponsorship deal due to the move.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – JANUARY 22: Marcus Rashford of Manchester United and Harry Maguire during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD7 training and press conference at Carrington Training Ground on January 22, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Rashford has been a Nike athlete since 2016, signing a lucrative seven-year deal in 2021. However, his move to Aston Villa affects the endorsement structure tied to his contract.
Manchester United was a “Category A” club in Nike’s sponsorship model, meaning Rashford was eligible for maximum financial benefits.
Aston Villa falls into a lower category, resulting in Nike cutting his pay by as much as 50%.
Players in the lowest tier of Nike’s ranking can earn as little as £50,000 per year, a massive drop compared to Rashford’s previous earnings.
Additionally, Nike has the contractual right to demand a refund on part of Rashford’s signing bonus, which could further impact his overall earnings.
Rashford’s limited game time at Manchester United, lack of England national team appearances, and recent struggles in front of goal could also contribute to further reductions in his Nike deal. Brands like Nike prioritize visibility and performance, and Rashford’s dip in form could cost him millions.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – JANUARY 29: Marcus Rashford of Manchester United takes part ind the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD8 training and press conference at the Carrington Training complex on January 29, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Ben Roberts Photo/Getty Images)
Despite the financial setback, Rashford is optimistic about his future at Aston Villa. He expressed his excitement about working under Unai Emery, stating:
“It’s an ambitious time for this club and a great opportunity for me to join the team and help them keep pushing forward. I’m excited, can’t wait for the first training session and obviously the first game.”
Rashford also praised Villa’s ambition and Emery’s success in transforming the club
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – JANUARY 22: Marcus Rashford during a Manchester United training session at the Carrington Training Centre, on January 22, 2025, in Manchester, England. (Photo by Alan Harvey/SNS Group via Getty Images)
While Rashford’s move to Aston Villa offers him a chance to revive his form, it comes with a major financial cost, particularly regarding his Nike endorsement deal. This situation highlights the complex relationship between player transfers, club rankings, and sponsorship earnings in modern football.