Marcus Rashford says he is “ready for a new challenge” following questions about his future at Manchester United.
The 27-year-old forward was left out of the squad for Sunday’s 2-1 victory over Manchester City in the derby. United’s new head coach, Ruben Amorim, clarified that Rashford’s omission was not due to disciplinary reasons but hinted that he had expected more from the England international both on and off the field during his early weeks in charge.
In an interview with football writer Henry Winter, published on X, Rashford discussed his feelings about the situation, saying: “If I know that a situation is already bad, I’m not going to make it worse. I’ve seen how other players have left in the past and I don’t want to be that person.”
He continued: “When I leave, I’ll make a statement and it will be from me. When I leave, it’s going to be ‘no hard feelings.’ You’re not going to have any negative comments from me about Manchester United. That’s me as a person.”
Rashford, who has scored 138 goals in 426 appearances for United since making his debut in 2016, said he feels ready for a fresh challenge after what has been a difficult period. Despite a standout 2022-23 season where he netted 30 goals in all competitions, he has struggled with form in recent months, drawing criticism for a number of lackluster performances.
Amorim addressed the omission of Rashford and fellow forward Alejandro Garnacho, stating: “It is important to say it was not a disciplinary thing. Next week, next game, new life and they are fighting for their places. What is important is the performance in training, the performance in game, the way you dress, the way you eat, the way you engage with teammates and push teammates.”
Rashford’s commitment has been questioned in recent weeks, including by former United captain Gary Neville, after the player traveled to the United States during the international break and was photographed attending an NBA game in New York.
Reflecting on his omission from the derby squad, Rashford admitted: “It’s disheartening to be left out of a derby, but it’s happened, we won the game, so let’s move on. It’s disappointing, but I’m also someone, as I’ve got older, I can deal with setbacks. What am I going to do about it? Sit there and cry about it? Or do my best the next time I’m available?”
Rashford, who was notably excluded from Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the summer’s European Championship in Germany, said the prospect of returning to the national team under new manager Thomas Tuchel still “excites” him.
“I still have the desire to play for England,” he added.
