The relationship between Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford and manager Ruben Amorim appears to have hit a breaking point, as the England international faces serious questions about his commitment. Amorim’s recent comments suggest there may be “no way back” for Rashford at Old Trafford.
Rashford, now 27, has not featured for the club since December 12, and Amorim has publicly criticized the player’s attitude. Speaking to the press, the United manager stated he would prefer to include 63-year-old goalkeeping coach Jorge Vital in the squad over “a player who doesn’t give maximum effort every day.”
Former United defender Rio Ferdinand, a six-time Premier League winner, has warned that Rashford’s time at the club may be over.
“If a manager questions your professionalism, effort, or application, it’s a huge blow to your pride and reputation,” Ferdinand said on his YouTube channel. “For Rashford, there’s no way back after those comments. If he stays, it sets a precedent for others to slack off and still have a path back into the team.”
Concerns Over Rashford’s Attitude
Former Premier League champion Chris Sutton echoed similar concerns, emphasizing Rashford’s need to change his behavior.
“He’s gotten too comfortable,” Sutton remarked on BBC Radio 5 Live. “What Amorim said wasn’t unreasonable—it’s basic professionalism. Rashford has been a great player, but if he isn’t applying himself, that’s unacceptable. Amorim is simply demanding the effort any manager would expect.”
Rashford, who joined Manchester United’s academy at age seven, has made over 400 appearances for the club, winning trophies like the Europa League, two FA Cups, and two EFL Cups. However, since Amorim replaced Erik ten Hag in November, Rashford’s form and relationship with the club have come under scrutiny.
Despite scoring in Amorim’s first game—a 1-1 draw against Ipswich—and twice in a 4-0 win over Everton, Rashford was left out of the squad for United’s 2-1 derby victory over Manchester City on December 15. Days later, he told journalist Henry Winter that he was “ready for a new challenge.”
Rashford’s Response and Transfer Speculation
Ferdinand questioned why Rashford hasn’t publicly denied Amorim’s claims if they were inaccurate.
“If someone said I wasn’t giving my all, I’d be holding a press conference to set the record straight,” Ferdinand added. “Rashford’s silence speaks volumes. He needs to look in the mirror and take responsibility.”
Amid speculation about a potential transfer, former United first-team coach Rene Meulensteen believes a move would benefit both Rashford and the club.
“If I were Rashford, I’d do everything possible to secure a transfer,” Meulensteen said on BBC Radio 5 Live. “He needs a fresh start in a new league to rediscover his form. Public disputes like this don’t help anyone.”
Rashford, who has 60 caps for England, was a standout performer in the 2022-23 season, scoring 30 goals across all competitions. However, Ferdinand believes he must prove he can regain that form.
“When does it click that no one owes you anything?” Ferdinand asked. “He needs to show up every day with the hunger to earn his place and rebuild his reputation.”
Rashford Risks Losing Key Career Years
Chris Sutton warned that Rashford is in danger of wasting the prime years of his career if he doesn’t change his approach.
“If he doesn’t move or knuckle down, he risks becoming irrelevant,” Sutton said. “Sitting on the sidelines won’t help anyone.”
Key Moments in Rashford’s Fallout with Amorim
- November 24, 2024: Scores Amorim’s first goal as United manager in a 1-1 draw with Ipswich Town.
- December 1, 2024: Nets twice in a dominant 4-0 victory over Everton.
- December 12, 2024: Substituted after 56 minutes in a Europa League tie against Viktoria Plzen, replaced by Rasmus Højlund, who scores twice in a 2-1 comeback win.
- December 15, 2024: Left out of the squad for a crucial 2-1 win over Manchester City.
- December 17, 2024: In an interview with Henry Winter, Rashford admits he is “ready for a new challenge.”
- January 20, 2025: Sources close to Rashford reveal he hasn’t ruled out playing for United again.
- January 26, 2025: Amorim delivers a scathing comment, saying he would rather field a 63-year-old coach than a player who “doesn’t give the maximum effort every day.”
With the January transfer window open, all eyes are on Marcus Rashford as the situation unfolds, leaving fans to wonder whether he can salvage his Manchester United career or if his future lies
SOURCE: BBC
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