Winger Misses Out on Derby Action, But Still Celebrates Dramatic Win
Manchester United winger Marcus Rashford found himself sidelined for the highly anticipated derby against Manchester City on Sunday, with his omission from the squad raising eyebrows. Despite not being part of the matchday squad, Rashford was still very much involved in celebrating his team’s dramatic 2-1 victory, which saw the Red Devils secure all three points with two late goals.
Rashford’s Absence From the Squad
Rashford was notably absent from the squad that faced City, alongside fellow winger Alejandro Garnacho. Both players were excluded from the matchday lineup by United’s head coach, Ruben Amorim. The decision to drop the two players did not stem from any injury or disciplinary issues, with Amorim making it clear that their omissions were based purely on a tactical decision.
Although the exact reasons behind the exclusion remain unclear, the United boss emphasized that his decision was made to uphold the high standards expected of players within the squad. After a season of inconsistency, Amorim’s choice to leave out two of the club’s more prominent attacking players was a reminder that no player, regardless of their status, is immune to rotation if they fail to meet the necessary expectations.
United’s Dramatic Derby Victory
Manchester United’s victory over City was a rollercoaster of emotions, with the team trailing 1-0 until the final five minutes. A Bruno Fernandes penalty and a scrappy strike from Amad Diallo in the dying moments handed United a thrilling 2-1 win, condemning City to their eighth defeat in 11 matches across all competitions. The late comeback was a testament to the resilience and determination of the squad, and the win marked an important moment in the club’s season.
Despite not playing any role in the game, Rashford took to social media to share in the celebration. He posted a picture of Diallo’s joyful celebration after the late winner, alongside a caption that read, “Yesssssssss! Love it lads.” His post, which featured the winger congratulating his teammates, highlighted his support for the team despite his omission from the matchday squad.
Amorim Addresses Rashford and Garnacho’s Exclusion
Following the match, Amorim was asked about the decision to drop both Rashford and Garnacho. The United manager pointed to the importance of maintaining professional standards within the squad, particularly at a time when many staff members at the club are facing job cuts as part of a broader cost-cutting initiative. Amorim’s decision to leave out the pair was not a statement against them, but rather a call for all players to meet the club’s standards of professionalism.
Amorim made it clear that neither Rashford nor Garnacho were being punished or banned from the squad. Rather, he emphasized that any player who works hard and meets the standards expected of them can earn their place back in the team. “It’s about working hard behind the scenes,” Amorim explained, stressing that both players have the opportunity to make a return in upcoming fixtures if they demonstrate the right attitude and commitment.
The head coach’s comments underline the competitive nature of the squad, where even key players are not guaranteed a spot in the starting XI or on the bench if their performances fall short of expectations. This decision also highlights Amorim’s philosophy of maintaining a high level of professionalism and accountability across the board, ensuring that every player remains focused and committed to the team’s objectives.
Rashford’s Future at United
Rashford’s omission from the derby squad has prompted discussions about his future at Manchester United. After a standout season in 2023, where Rashford was one of the club’s most influential players, his recent form has been inconsistent. While he remains an important figure for United, his exclusion from the squad against City serves as a reminder that no player is guaranteed a spot in the team, regardless of past performances.
For Rashford, the next few weeks could prove crucial as he looks to regain his place in the starting lineup. With United’s schedule set to intensify, including an upcoming Carabao Cup clash against Tottenham Hotspur, the 26-year-old will need to demonstrate his worth to Amorim and ensure that he is ready to contribute when called upon.
Looking Ahead: The Carabao Cup and Beyond
Ruben Amorim has made it clear that there is no animosity towards Rashford or Garnacho, and both players have the opportunity to earn a place in the squad for the upcoming Carabao Cup clash with Tottenham. The competition for places in the United squad is fierce, and the manager’s rotation policy means that players must consistently prove their worth, both in training and in matches, to remain part of the matchday setup.
As Manchester United continues to fight for silverware in multiple competitions, Rashford will need to focus on his performances, training hard to meet Amorim’s high standards. The team’s victory over City demonstrated the strength and depth of the squad, with players like Diallo stepping up to deliver when it matters most. Rashford will be hoping to do the same as United looks ahead to their next challenges.
Conclusion: Rashford’s Role Moving Forward
Although Marcus Rashford was not involved in Manchester United’s dramatic victory over City, he remains an important figure within the squad. His omission from the matchday squad against City was a wake-up call to all players, emphasizing the need to meet the standards set by Amorim. While the decision was tactical, it also highlighted the depth and competitiveness of the squad as United aims for continued success this season.
As United prepares for their next fixture, Rashford will be looking to regain his place in the starting XI and continue contributing to the team’s success. With hard work and dedication, he can bounce back and re-establish himself as a key player for the Red Devils.
