Amorim: Rashford has to change to revive Old Trafford career

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has issued a stern warning to Marcus Rashford, insisting that the England forward “has to change” if he wants to salvage his future at Old Trafford.

Rashford has not featured for United since a Europa League clash against Viktoria Plzen in December, following Amorim’s surprise decision to drop him for the Premier League derby against Manchester City.

The 27-year-old will miss his 12th consecutive game when United wrap up their Europa League group stage campaign against Romanian side FCSB on Thursday.

The forward hinted at a “new challenge” after being left out against City, but despite training with the squad on Wednesday, he was once again omitted from the travelling party. United, currently fourth in the Premier League, are aiming to secure automatic qualification to the Europa League last 16 and avoid a play-off tie.

Amorim has not held back in his criticism of Rashford’s attitude, previously stating after a win over Fulham that he would rather have United’s 63-year-old goalkeeping coach in his squad than a half-hearted Rashford.

Amid speculation linking Rashford to AC Milan and Barcelona, Amorim doubled down on his stance, emphasizing that the forward’s return to the team depends entirely on his mindset.

“The last time I talked about this, I said I would not put in any player who doesn’t give the maximum,” Amorim stated.

“When I feel it’s the right moment, I will bring him back. It’s clear—we are a better team with Marcus Rashford, no doubt. He is a big talent.

“But until the right moment, I will not change my mind. He has to change. If he does, he is more than welcome, and we need him.”

With the transfer deadline approaching, United faces uncertainty over Rashford’s future, as his high wages limit potential suitors.

“You can see the profile of players in our team, now imagine a talent like Rashford,” Amorim added. “We should be so much better with him, but we have to set standards.

“This is not personal. I have nothing against Marcus. But I have to apply the same rules for everyone. It’s that simple.”

After a turbulent start to his tenure, Amorim is keen for United to finish in the Europa League’s top eight, securing direct passage to the last 16.

“It’s massive for us,” he said. “We could have two weeks without midweek games, and at this moment, that is really important.”