Erik ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United, believes Marcus Rashford is steadily regaining his best form, thanks to a mix of external support and Rashford’s own self-discipline. Last season, Rashford had a standout year, scoring 30 goals and earning an England call-up. However, this season has been challenging; he scored only eight goals and missed out on England’s Euro 2024 squad, which compounded his struggles. Personal issues also affected his performance, leading to a difficult period for him both on and off the field.
Recently, though, signs indicate that Rashford is finding his rhythm again. After starting the season under scrutiny, he scored his first goal since March against Southampton, followed by a two-goal performance against Barnsley. These contributions signal a potential return to form.
Ten Hag has emphasized the importance of resilience in a demanding club like Manchester United. He recognizes that a player’s career has its ups and downs and believes Rashford is taking charge of his trajectory. The manager is hopeful that Rashford’s positive momentum will continue, helping him recapture his past heights.
When asked about the role of the coaching staff in Rashford’s resurgence, Ten Hag pointed out that while support is important, the responsibility ultimately rests with the player. He acknowledged Rashford’s efforts to realign his life, training, and mindset, stressing that professionalism on and off the field is crucial for a player’s success.
As discussions about Rashford’s return to the England squad persist, Ten Hag remains neutral, stating that national team decisions are beyond his control. He continues to focus on Rashford’s club performance, which is improving.
Ten Hag also addressed past incidents that impacted Rashford’s season, such as when he criticized him for a nightclub visit after a tough loss and another incident that led to disciplinary action. These situations underscore the need for athletes to balance their personal lives with professional responsibilities. Ten Hag reiterated that off-field discipline is vital for performance, especially at a club with high standards.
Rashford’s recent improvement has revitalized his prospects for upcoming matches, particularly after his contributions in recent victories over Southampton and Barnsley. As Manchester United prepares to face Crystal Palace, Rashford’s renewed focus makes him a strong candidate for a starting role.
Young players like Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo are also making strong cases for inclusion in the first team. Garnacho impressed with two goals in a recent match, while Diallo has shown significant development since January. Ten Hag is optimistic about Diallo’s growth and unique abilities.
As the season progresses, the combination of Rashford’s return to form and the emergence of promising talents like Garnacho and Diallo provides Ten Hag with a diverse array of attacking options. This blend of experience and youthful energy will be crucial as Manchester United aims to remain competitive across all competitions. Ten Hag is confident that his squad has the depth and quality to challenge on multiple fronts.
