Rashford, 27, has not featured for United since December 12, and Amorim’s latest remarks suggest that the club’s patience with the player has run out.
Speaking to the media on Sunday, Amorim made a stark comparison, stating he would rather have 63-year-old goalkeeper coach Jorge Vital in the squad than “a player who doesn’t give the maximum every day.”
The strong words from the United boss have fueled speculation that Rashford’s tenure at Old Trafford is nearing an unceremonious conclusion.
Former United defender and six-time Premier League winner Rio Ferdinand believes Amorim’s comments leave the England international with no way back.
“If I was the player the manager said that about, my heart, my pride, my ego – it’s embarrassment,” Ferdinand said on his Rio Presents YouTube channel.
“For someone to question your application, to question you giving 100 per cent for the team, saying you’re lacking effort and taking shortcuts, that’s a damning comment. There’s no way back for Marcus after that.”
Ferdinand further argued that allowing Rashford to return to the squad despite Amorim’s criticism would set a dangerous precedent.
“If he did come back, that means other players can take their foot off the gas and have a way back into the team and take shortcuts,” he added.
Sutton: ‘Rashford Needs to Improve His Attitude’
Former Premier League title winner Chris Sutton echoed Ferdinand’s sentiments, insisting that Rashford must change his approach if he hopes to salvage his Manchester United career.
“He is too big for his boots,” Sutton said on BBC Radio 5 Live’s Monday Night Club. “It’s quite basic what Amorim said, and for whatever reason, Rashford is playing up – and that’s totally unacceptable.”
Sutton acknowledged Rashford’s past contributions but argued that the forward is no longer meeting the club’s expectations. “We all know Marcus Rashford was a wonderful player, probably still is. What Amorim has done is his last resort and is well within his rights to do.
He is not asking for anything extraordinary, just asking for Rashford to apply himself every day,” Sutton explained.
The situation represents another major setback for Rashford, who came through United’s academy and once appeared to be a cornerstone of the club’s future.
Despite flashes of brilliance throughout his career, the forward has faced criticism over inconsistent performances and questions about his mentality.
With Amorim now publicly voicing his concerns, Rashford’s future at Old Trafford appears increasingly uncertain.
Unless there is a dramatic turnaround, the England international may be forced to seek a fresh start elsewhere as the summer transfer window approaches.
