Marcus Rashford has long been a central figure at Manchester United, known for his explosive pace, goal-scoring ability, and community involvement. Under the management of Ruben Amorim, fans hoped the forward would rediscover his best form. Initially, Rashford seemed to flourish, scoring three goals in his first two matches. However, as the season progressed, his performances reportedly took a downward turn, leading to unexpected decisions by Amorim that have since sparked significant debate.
A Night Out and Its Fallout
According to The Athletic, Rashford allegedly went out on the Friday night before the much-anticipated Manchester derby. The timing of this outing raised eyebrows, particularly when his training the following day was described as below par. This reportedly did not sit well with Amorim, who is known for his high standards and discipline.
While Rashford’s representatives were quick to deny the allegations, the incident seemed to mark a turning point in his relationship with the coach. Amorim was reportedly disappointed with Rashford’s effort during training, describing it as “lackluster” and uncharacteristic of a player with his potential.
This perceived lack of professionalism reportedly frustrated Amorim, setting the stage for his decision to take more drastic measures in managing Rashford.
A Strained Relationship Between Amorim and Rashford
Ruben Amorim’s response to the situation was decisive. He excluded Rashford from several key matchday squads in December, including high-profile games against Manchester City and Wolves. Such decisions are rare for a player of Rashford’s stature and immediately sparked speculation about the underlying reasons.
Amorim’s actions were reportedly aimed at sending a message—not just to Rashford but to the entire squad. By dropping one of the team’s star players, Amorim sought to demonstrate that no one was above the team’s collective goals.
Despite these disciplinary measures, Rashford’s effort on the field tells a different story. Statistics reveal:
Increased Distance Covered: Rashford now averages 10.2 km per game, an improvement from 9.97 km last season.
Higher Sprint Count: His sprints per game have also seen a noticeable rise, suggesting that his physical output remains commendable.
These numbers indicate that Rashford is working harder than ever, even if the results haven’t fully translated into his performances.
Illness and Public Appearances
The drama surrounding Rashford’s form took another turn when he was sidelined due to illness. This forced him to miss multiple training sessions, further complicating his situation.
Despite his absence from the team, Rashford made headlines for a heartwarming reason. He visited his former primary school, where he handed out gifts to children and spoke about embracing a “new challenge” in his career. This gesture was widely praised, showcasing his commitment to giving back to the community even during a challenging time in his professional life.
However, this public appearance also raised questions about his readiness to return to the pitch and fully focus on his football career.
What’s Next for Marcus Rashford?
The uncertainty surrounding Marcus Rashford’s future at Manchester United is palpable. With a lucrative weekly salary of £325,000, the club faces potential difficulties in finding a buyer willing to match his wages.
Some fans and analysts believe that Rashford’s struggles could signal the beginning of the end for his career at United. Others see this as a temporary blip—a period of adversity that could ultimately make him stronger.
Sunday’s clash with Liverpool looms large, but Rashford is expected to remain on the sidelines. Whether this continued exclusion serves as a wake-up call or further alienates him from the club remains to be seen.
Conclusion
Marcus Rashford’s journey under Ruben Amorim has been anything but straightforward. From allegations of unprofessional behavior to illness and exclusion from key matches, the challenges have been significant.
For fans and neutrals alike, Rashford’s story is a reminder of the pressures faced by elite athletes. Whether he uses this period as a stepping stone to a brighter future or allows it to define his career will depend on his resilience, determination, and ability to adapt.
In the meantime, Manchester United supporters will be watching closely, hoping that their hometown hero can overcome these hurdles and once again shine at the highest level.