Marcus Rashford’s arrival at Aston Villa is already stirring controversy as Unai Emery’s squad selection decisions leave key players sidelined.
The England international, who joined Villa on loan from Manchester United in the final days of the January transfer window, is aiming to revive his career after a challenging spell at Old Trafford.
Named on the bench for Villa’s FA Cup clash against Tottenham, Rashford has also been included in the club’s Champions League squad for the remainder of the season.
However, UEFA rules allow only three new players to be added, forcing Emery to exclude permanent signings Donyell Malen and Andres Garcia in favor of loanees Rashford, Marco Asensio, and Axel Disasi.
While Garcia’s omission was expected, Malen’s exclusion has raised eyebrows. The Dutch forward, a £19 million signing from Borussia Dortmund, played a crucial role in his former club’s Champions League run last season, scoring 15 goals. Fans had anticipated his inclusion over temporary additions like Rashford and Asensio.
Addressing the decision, Emery admitted it was tough but necessary. “I spoke with Andres and Donyell. I tried to be honest, knowing it was not fair for him [Malen], but I had to make this decision,” he explained.
Despite this conversation, reports indicate Malen was left “deeply disappointed” by the snub. Emery was reportedly compelled to include Rashford and Asensio due to promises made upon their arrival, while Disasi was chosen to bolster defensive depth.
Villa are covering at least 75% of Rashford’s £325,000-per-week wages and hold a £40 million purchase option. However, with tensions already surfacing, the impact of this move on squad morale remains to be seen.