Marcus Rashford‘s struggles at Manchester United have taken another dramatic turn, with head coach Ruben Amorim delivering a scathing critique of the forward’s work ethic.
Rashford has been conspicuously absent from United’s lineup, making no appearances and only being named in the squad once across the last 11 matches.
The England international’s omission came under the spotlight again during United’s uninspired 1-0 victory over Fulham on Sunday night.
When asked about Rashford’s continued absence, Amorim gave a candid and unyielding explanation:
“It is always the same reason,” Amorim said.
“The reason is the training. The reason is what I think a footballer should do in training and in life. If things do not change, I will not change.”
A Manager’s Uncompromising Stance
Amorim’s approach to team selection appears rooted in a no-nonsense philosophy.
Speaking about his standards for players, he stated, “It is the same situation for every player. If you do the maximum and do the right things, we can use every player.”
He even went as far as to suggest he would prefer to field his 63-year-old goalkeeping coach, Jorge Vital, over a player who does not demonstrate maximum effort.
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“And you can see today on the bench, we missed a bit of pace to go, to change the game.
I will put [Jorge] Vital before I put a player that does not give the maximum. I will not change in that department,” Amorim said firmly.
A Decline in Form and Influence
Rashford’s current predicament marks a significant fall from grace for a player who was once regarded as one of United’s brightest talents.
After an impressive 2022/23 season where he scored 30 goals in all competitions, expectations were high for the 25-year-old to spearhead United’s attack this season.
However, inconsistency and questions about his commitment have overshadowed his performances. With United struggling for creativity and pace in the attacking third, Rashford’s absence from the squad continues to raise eyebrows.
What’s Next for Rashford?
Amorim’s comments not only highlight Rashford’s struggles but also cast serious doubts over his future at Old Trafford.
A player once hailed as a cornerstone of United’s future now faces an uncertain path.
For Rashford, the message from Amorim is clear: only a drastic change in attitude and training standards will earn him a way back into the team.
However, with transfer windows looming and speculation mounting, the England forward may seek opportunities elsewhere if the current impasse persists.
Ruben Amorim’s blunt critique of Marcus Rashford underscores a broader issue of discipline and performance standards at Manchester United.
While the club navigates a challenging season, the spotlight remains on Rashford to rise to the challenge—or risk being left behind.
For now, the ball is firmly in Rashford’s court. Whether he chooses to meet Amorim’s high standards or seek a fresh start elsewhere could define the next chapter of his career.