Marcus Rashford’s form has been a major talking point since last season, with criticism mounting from former players, pundits, and fans. His abject performance in a recent match against Newcastle United has brought his struggles into sharp focus. With only two goals in 18 games for United so far this season, his position within the team is increasingly under scrutiny.
Despite being the highest-earning player at Manchester United and the embodiment of the club’s tradition of nurturing local talent, the 24-year-old forward’s performance has been a cause for concern. His lack of industry and diminishing work rate on the field have left manager Erik ten Hag with a difficult decision to make. There are calls for Rashford to be benched in order to give him the opportunity to rediscover his best form.
Should Ten Hag choose to drop Rashford from the starting lineup, it will be a significant decision that could define his tenure at Old Trafford. The difficulty in dealing with Rashford contrasts sharply with Cristiano Ronaldo’s exit, which was heralded as a sign of Ten Hag’s assertiveness with the squad. However, parting with a player who publicly criticized the management was a relatively easy decision. Rashford, on the other hand, represents a different challenge due to his status within the club and the expectations associated with his talent.
Despite Rashford’s struggles, his potential and past successes are undeniable. He finished last season with 30 goals in all competitions and showcased an impressive goal-scoring record in previous campaigns. However, recent performances have failed to live up to these standards, leaving fans and pundits questioning his value within the team.
Rashford’s lack of goals and questionable body language have raised concerns about his commitment and attitude. Ten Hag’s decision regarding Rashford’s place in the starting XI will be a litmus test of his readiness to make tough calls for the benefit of the team as a whole. It remains to be seen how this situation will unfold and what impact it will have on the future of Manchester United and Marcus Rashford himself.
