Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has openly criticised Marcus Rashford’s work ethic, stating that he would rather name his 63-year-old goalkeeping coach, Jorge Vital, on the bench than a player who fails to give his maximum effort in training.
The 27-year-old England forward has not been included in a matchday squad for six weeks, missing out once again as United secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Fulham in the Premier League on Sunday.
With the transfer window set to close on 3 February, uncertainty looms over Rashford’s future at Old Trafford.
Amorim was direct when asked about Rashford’s continued exclusion. “It’s always the same reason – the training, the way I see a footballer should do in life. It’s every day, every detail,” Amorim said.
“If things don’t change, I will not change. It’s the same situation for every player. If you do the maximum and the right things, we can use every player.”
The Portuguese coach did not hold back, further emphasizing his stance by claiming he would rather include Vital on the bench than a player who lacks the right attitude.
“You can see on the bench we miss a bit of pace, but I would put Vital before a player who doesn’t give the maximum every day,” he added.
Transfer Uncertainty Surrounds Rashford
Sources close to Rashford insist the forward holds no issues with Amorim and remains willing to play for the club. However, his absence has fueled speculation over a potential transfer.
A move to AC Milan is no longer viable following the Italian club’s acquisition of Kyle Walker, as Serie A regulations allow only one English signing per transfer window.
Meanwhile, a potential loan switch to Barcelona hinges on the departures of Eric Garcia or Ansu Fati, but neither player appears inclined to leave the Nou Camp.
Pundits Back Amorim’s Stance
Former Newcastle United goalkeeper Shay Given defended Amorim’s decision, stating that Manchester United supporters recognize the need for commitment from their players.
“The fans aren’t stupid. They see it’s not good enough from the players, and Ruben Amorim is just being honest,” Given said on BBC Match of the Day.
“If you don’t train hard and dedicate your life, you won’t be in the team. You have to show your manager you deserve a place in the team.”
Ex-Aston Villa midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger, however, warned that Amorim’s approach could permanently damage his relationship with Rashford.
“He wants to set an example, but if he does that, they will never be friends again,” Hitzlsperger noted. “Amorim is also under pressure. If he is very harsh with the players, then his teams have to improve.”
Rashford’s Future at a Crossroads
Despite Rashford’s talent and past contributions to the club, his lack of involvement under Amorim raises serious questions about his long-term prospects at United.
With the January transfer window nearing its conclusion, the next few days could be crucial in determining whether the forward remains at Old Trafford or seeks a fresh start elsewhere.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
