Prince William’s special connection to Aston Villa’s new signing Marcus Rashford Laid Bare

The Prince of Wales has an existing connection with Aston Villa’s new signing Marcus Rashford.

Prince William is a devoted Aston Villa supporter and is regularly seen cheering on the Birmingham-based football club at Villa Park.

On Sunday evening, it was announced that Aston Villa have completed the loan signing of Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford until the end of the season, with a £40m option to buy.

The 27-year-old striker chose Villa among several interested clubs, citing the team’s playing style and manager’s ambitions as key factors in his decision.

Taking to Instagram, Rashford wrote: “I would like to thank Manchester United and Aston Villa for making this loan deal happen.”

The forward expressed his excitement about the move, adding: “I wish everyone at Manchester United all the best for the rest of the season.”

The prince’s devotion to Aston Villa adds a royal connection to this significant transfer.
Rashford has already met Prince William, one of Villa’s most high-profile supporters.

In 2021, the forward received an MBE from the future king at Windsor Castle.

The honour was awarded by Prince William in recognition of Rashford’s campaigning work for school meals during the pandemic.

At the MBE ceremony, Rashford announced he would dedicate the honour to his mother, Melanie Maynard, who raised him and his siblings.

The footballer also affirmed his commitment to continue campaigning on behalf of vulnerable children.

The move to Aston Villa comes after Rashford said in December that he was “ready for a new challenge”.

The England international had fallen out with Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim and has not played for the club this year.

Rashford came through Manchester United’s academy and has never played for another club during his career.

He is expected to make his debut for Aston Villa in their FA Cup match against Tottenham on Sunday.