Marcus Rashford has admitted he is “ready for a new challenge” and comments from former Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag could provide some insight into why.
Rashford has struggled for form since scoring 30 times in all competitions in the 2022/23 season, with the 27-year-old netting just eight the following season. He has scored seven goals so far this season and speculation is rife over his future at Old Trafford, especially after he was left out of United's squad for the 2-1 win over Manchester City.
“For me personally, I think I'm ready for a new challenge and the next steps,” Rashford told Henry Winter. “If I leave, there won't be any hard feelings. You won't get any negative comments from me about Manchester United. That's me as a person.”
“If I know a situation is already bad, I'm not going to make it worse. I've seen other players leave in the past and I don't want to be that person. If I leave, I will make sure an explanation and it will be mine.”
And comments from Ten Hag earlier this season could provide some understanding as to why Rashford is considering leaving his boyhood club. In August, Ten Hag defended Rashford after he was criticized by Alan Shearer.
“He's played two games this season, Marcus Rashford, and he hasn't had a single chance on goal yet,” Shearer said on Match of the Day. 'Fifty-seven goals [Manchester United] scored last season. That was the worst in the top half. Ruud van Nistelrooy has been brought in there. He's going to have to use his magic somehow.”
However, Ten Hag branded Shearer's analysis as “stupid” and suggested that players at United tend to receive more criticism than those at other clubs. “Everyone is criticized by you, it doesn't matter what we do, whether we win or lose,” he said.
“If I take away a player, the conclusion is that I was not happy with him. But I was very happy with Rashy in the preparation, against Fulham.” [in the opening game] and also against Brighton. I didn't take him away because his performance or level wasn't right. No, we had to rotate because we have good players on the bench who bring new energy.
“There will be rotation. Then there is the conclusion that the player is not performing. That can sometimes be the case, but in this case it was certainly not the case. In this case it was a stupid analysis by the expert.”
In Rashford's case, it may be best for him to try and get back to his best away from the intense spotlight that comes with playing for United. However, Red Devils boss Ruben Amorim has insisted the striker will remain at Old Trafford.
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