In an unexpected twist off the pitch, Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford has reportedly split from his Love Island girlfriend Grace Jackson—marking the end of yet another high-profile romance for the Premier League star. The breakup, which occurred just before the festive season, has sparked a wave of speculation about what went wrong between the Old Trafford footballer and the influencer-model who had been making headlines both for her ITV reality TV fame and fashion deals.
What Led to Their Breakup?
Reports suggest that Grace Jackson ended the relationship with Marcus Rashford in December 2024. Sources close to Grace indicated that she felt Marcus wasn’t serious about their relationship. The challenges of dating a high-profile footballer, including limited privacy and intense public scrutiny, contributed to her decision. Grace reportedly unfollowed him on Instagram, signalling the end of their relationship.
In conversations with fellow Love Island contestants, Grace mentioned that the relationship “drifted” after media attention intensified. She expressed discomfort with the lack of normalcy in their dating life, highlighting the difficulties of maintaining a relationship under constant public observation.
Impact on Marcus Rashford’s Personal and Life at Manchester United Following The Breakup with Grace Jackson
The end of his relationship with Grace Jackson adds to a series of personal challenges for Marcus Rashford. Earlier, he had split from his childhood sweetheart, Lucia Loi, with whom he had a long-term relationship. These personal developments coincide with a period of professional uncertainty, as Marcus has expressed a desire for new challenges, leading to speculation about his future with Manchester United.
Despite these challenges, Marcus continues to be a pivotal player for Manchester United and has earned 60 senior international caps for England. His focus remains on his football career, aiming to contribute significantly to his team’s success in the Premier League.
Public and Media Reactions to the Split
The breakup between Marcus Rashford and Grace Jackson has garnered significant media attention. Fans and media outlets have speculated on the reasons behind the split, with many expressing support for Grace’s decision to prioritize her career. The public’s reaction has been mixed, with some sympathizing with Marcus’s situation, while others commend Grace for taking control of her narrative.
Grace’s candid discussions about the challenges of dating a high-profile athlete have resonated with many, highlighting the complexities of maintaining a relationship under public scrutiny.
How Did Marcus Rashford and Grace Jackson’s Relationship Begin?

Marcus Rashford, a prominent figure in the Premier League and a key player for Manchester United, began dating Grace Jackson, a former Love Island contestant, in 2024. Grace, known for her appearance on the ITV2 dating show, had previously been linked to Joey Essex. Their relationship garnered attention due to their high-profile statuses and was seen as a blend of sports and reality TV fame.
The couple was spotted on multiple occasions around Cheshire, enjoying dates and spending quality time together. Grace’s modelling career was on the rise, with a significant six-figure deal with fashion and shoe brand EGO, further elevating her public profile.
Grace Jackson’s Modelling Career and Brand Collaborations
Grace Jackson’s modelling career has seen significant growth, particularly after her initial appearance on Love Island. She secured a six-figure deal with fashion and shoe brand EGO, showcasing her influence in the fashion industry. Grace has also collaborated with notable brands like Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty and Conor McGregor’s promotions, further solidifying her status as a fashion influencer.
Her return to Love Island All Stars is a strategic move to enhance her brand and expand her career opportunities. Grace aims to capitalize on the exposure from the show to secure more lucrative deals and establish herself as a leading figure in the modeling world.
Grace Jackson’s Return to Love Island All Stars
Following the breakup, Grace Jackson decided to return to the Love Island villa for the All Stars edition. Her participation aims to revitalise her modelling career and potentially find a new romantic connection. Grace’s previous stint on Love Island had already established her as a notable personality, and her return is anticipated to stir dynamics within the villa.
Grace’s decision aligns with her career goals, as she seeks to leverage the show’s platform to secure more brand deals and increase her visibility in the fashion industry. Her return to the villa also offers her a chance to find a suitable match in the summer, as she didn’t meet one during her previous appearance.
Grace Jackson’s Journey on Love Island All Stars
Grace Jackson’s return to ITV show Love Island All Stars marks a new chapter in her journey. Her previous experience on the show, combined with her modelling success, positions her as a strong contender in the villa. Grace aims to find a suitable match in the summer and further her career through the exposure provided by the show.
Her participation is anticipated to bring excitement and drama to the series, as fans eagerly watch her interactions and potential romantic connections unfold.
Comparisons to Other High-Profile Footballer-Influencer Relationships
The relationship between Marcus Rashford and Grace Jackson has drawn comparisons to other high-profile couples, such as David and Victoria Beckham. Public relations experts have noted the potential for Marcus and Grace to become a power couple, blending sports and fashion industries. However, the challenges they faced underscore the difficulties of balancing personal relationships with demanding public careers.
Grace’s entrepreneurial ventures and Marcus’s philanthropic efforts suggest that both individuals have the potential to make significant impacts in their respective fields, even as their romantic relationship concludes.
Potential Future for Marcus Rashford’s Love Life
With the end of his relationship with Grace, Marcus’ personal life remains a topic of public interest. Having previously been in a long-term relationship with childhood sweetheart Lucia Loi, Marcus’s romantic endeavours continue to attract attention. As he focuses on his football career, it remains to be seen whether he will seek a new relationship or prioritise his professional commitments.
Given his status as a prominent footballer and public figure, any future relationships are likely to be under the media spotlight, presenting both opportunities and challenges for Marcus.
What’s Next for The Man Utd Star and Love Island Star Grace?
The end of Marcus Rashford and Grace Jackson’s relationship signifies a turning point for both individuals. Grace is poised to enhance her modeling career through her return to Love Island All Stars, while Marcus continues to focus on his football career with Manchester United. As they navigate their respective paths, both stars remain influential figures in their industries, with the potential for continued success and new opportunities on the horizon.