
England forward Marcus Rashford has been warned that his time at Manchester United might be over following manager Ruben Amorim’s public criticism of his professionalism.
Rashford, 27, has not played for United since December 12. On Sunday, Amorim said he would prefer to include 63-year-old goalkeeping coach Jorge Vital in his squad over a player who “doesn’t give the maximum every day.”
Former United defender Rio Ferdinand, a six-time Premier League winner, stated that Rashford’s future at Old Trafford seems bleak after such comments.
“If a manager questioned my commitment and effort like that, it would be embarrassing,” Ferdinand said on his YouTube channel, Rio Presents. “For Marcus, there’s no way back. Allowing him to return would set a poor example for others.”
Chris Sutton, a Premier League title winner, echoed similar sentiments on BBC Radio 5 Live, suggesting Rashford’s attitude must improve.
“He’s acting as if he’s bigger than the team,” Sutton said. “Amorim isn’t asking for anything extraordinary, just consistent effort every day.”
Decline in Form and Public Criticism

Rashford, a product of United’s academy with over 400 appearances and numerous titles, has been sidelined since Amorim replaced Erik ten Hag in November. While Rashford started strongly under Amorim—scoring three goals in his first two games—his form dipped dramatically.
After being substituted in a Europa League match against Viktoria Plzen on December 12, Rashford admitted in an interview that he was “ready for a new challenge.”
Ferdinand: “Rashford Needs to Speak Out”
Ferdinand argued Rashford’s silence only fuels speculation.
“If what Amorim said isn’t true, Marcus should address it publicly,” Ferdinand stated. “We live in a time where players can speak directly to fans. Silence might imply guilt.”
Calls for a Transfer
Former United coach Rene Meulensteen believes a transfer would be beneficial for Rashford.
“For Marcus, it’s time to move on and rediscover himself, perhaps in another league,” Meulensteen told BBC Radio 5 Live.
Sutton added that staying at United without regaining favor could waste Rashford’s peak years.
“He risks stagnating unless he turns things around or leaves,” Sutton said.
What’s Next for Rashford?
As speculation grows over a potential January move, Rashford’s future depends on how he responds to this challenging period. Will he step up to prove his worth at United, or will he seek a fresh start elsewhere?
Timeline of Rashford’s Fallout Under Amorim
- November 24: Scores in Amorim’s debut match, a 1-1 draw against Ipswich.
- December 1: Nets twice in a 4-0 victory over Everton.
- December 12: Substituted in a Europa League tie; Rasmus Højlund replaces him and scores twice.
- December 15: Left out of the squad for a 2-1 win over Manchester City.
- December 17: States in an interview that he is “ready for a new challenge.”
- January 20: Sources close to Rashford suggest he hopes to play for United again.
- January 26: Amorim publicly criticizes Rashford, questioning his commitment.
Conclusion
Marcus Rashford’s situation at Manchester United highlights a complex relationship between player, manager, and expectations. His next steps will determine whether he reignites his career at Old Trafford or seeks success elsewhere.