Marcus Rashford, Manchester United and the importance of legacy.
Spectacular free-kicks against Celta Vigo and Chelsea, chopping inside and scoring against Liverpool, dribbling through Brighton’s defence to score, a run from his own half against Burnley, a series of stepovers and finish against West Ham, and another against the Hammers, a sublime back-heel flick from a Luke Shaw corner. There will be many special goals for Manchester United fans to recall fondly when Marcus Rashford eventually leaves.
It was encouraging hearing United’s head coach, Ruben Amorim, describing Rashford as a “big talent” today, and that he wants to “help” the player regain his best form. It’s the type of supportive words that Rashford needs to hear. It was good man-management, and very diplomatic, as the last thing that United need is for Rashford’s exit to become messy. It also makes sense for the club to have Rashford fit and firing heading into the transfer window.
The reality that United did not make any attempt to close down stories about the club being prepared to sell Rashford has been one of the most telling elements of this endgame. Any scroll through United’s social media feed reveals far more focus on Rasmus Hojlund and, understandably given his form, Amad Diallo. A cynic would think he is being phased out of the picture.
Comparisons are being made with Harry Maguire and how the centre-back fought back after being marginalised. Personally, I would rather Rashford stay and try to convince Amorim that he’s worth a chance and a place. United are going places under Amorim. But it is easy to understand why all the signals coming out of the club are turning into headlines that they want to move him on.
As a home-grown player Rashford’s fee will be pure profit under PSR. That’s even more important given Amorim’s limited budget for a squad needing strengthening, especially recruiting those who fit the new head coach’s 3-4-2-1 system. With a contract that doesn’t expire until 2028, Rashford should generate a decent fee for the club. He’s on substantial wages, as a winger is not a natural fit for 3-4-2-1, and his application in training and games has already been questioned by Amorim. A parting of the ways looks inevitable.
The main issue is who can offer him a similar salary and platform? It would be an incredibly complicated deal given how much he is still owed by United. One obvious solution for United is to send Rashford on loan in January, hope he hits the ground running fast and scoring freely, and then sell him for a chunky fee in the summer.