Marcus Rashford’s lackluster performance during the first two months of the 2023-24 season might result in him losing his spot in the starting XI at the club.
Last season, the 25-year-old displayed outstanding form for the Red Devils, scoring 30 goals and providing 11 assists in 56 appearances across all competitions.
However, Rashford has struggled to make an impact this season, managing only one goal in nine appearances, albeit with three assists to his name.
Once hailed as Man United’s star player, Rashford’s performances have come under scrutiny this term, raising doubts about his ability to maintain a starting role.
According to The Mirror, at least one member of the coaching staff has expressed concerns about Rashford’s body language. Furthermore, discussions among staff members heavily emphasize his decision-making abilities.
In the recent match against Galatasaray, Rashford assisted Rasmus Hojlund’s crucial goal, securing a lead for the home side. Yet, he missed a golden opportunity to score himself by opting to pass to Bruno Fernandes instead of taking the shot.
With Antony’s return from a leave of absence, the forward appeared as a substitute in the team’s 3-2 loss to Galatasaray.
Additionally, Alejandro Garnacho and Facundo Pellistri are alternative wide options available to the manager.
While Rashford’s position is no longer assured, it would still be surprising to see him dropped from the starting XI in Saturday’s Premier League clash against Brentford.
Ahead of the Galatasaray match, coach Ten Hag affirmed his support for the struggling attacker, stating that Rashford has had opportunities to score but lacked the finishing touch.
Ten Hag believes that when provided with sufficient support and movement from his teammates, Rashford is capable of finding the back of the net.
Since joining Manchester United, Rashford has scored 124 goals and provided 71 assists in 368 appearances across all competitions.
Despite speculation surrounding his future last summer and during previous seasons, Rashford signed a long-term contract extension in July, committing to Old Trafford until June 2028.