Paul Merson has expressed his ongoing confusion over Manchester United’s decision to loan Marcus Rashford to Aston Villa in January. Despite their struggles across multiple positions, United let more players leave than they brought in during the transfer window. Rashford, Antony, and Tyrell Malacia all departed on loan, while only Patrick Dorgu and Ayden Heaven arrived to bolster Ruben Amorim’s underperforming squad.
Since the January transfer window closed, United have failed to see a significant improvement in results, winning just two of their last seven matches. Rashford, who had fallen out with Amorim and rarely featured under the Portuguese manager, was sent to Villa Park on a temporary deal until the end of the season. The 27-year-old has made an immediate impact, contributing two assists in five league appearances, four of which came from the bench.
While there is no obligation for Aston Villa to make Rashford’s move permanent, Unai Emery has been full of praise for the England international. With his United career looking uncertain under Amorim, Merson remains shocked that the Red Devils chose to weaken their squad by offloading him at such a crucial time in the season.
“Marcus Rashford is doing alright, better than I thought he would do,” Merson told Sky Sports. “He would get in Manchester United’s team every day of the week, so I still don’t get it.” Rashford’s form has helped Villa strengthen their top-four push, with their latest 1-0 victory over Brentford providing another boost to their Champions League qualification hopes.
Meanwhile, Rashford’s parent club, Manchester United, will return to Premier League action on Sunday as they prepare to face Arsenal at Old Trafford. Merson shared his concerns about United’s ability to handle the pressure of such a big fixture, particularly with their inconsistent form this season.
“I worry for Manchester United if I’m being honest. I can’t imagine them blowing Real Sociedad away in the Europa League and then quickly shifting full focus to this game,” he added. “I’d be shocked if Arsenal don’t win. Their Champions League quarter-final qualification is already secured thanks to the 7-1 first-leg win, so they can have a real go here. That makes this a dangerous game for United.”
Reflecting on the significance of the upcoming clash, Merson told Sportskeeda, “If we were talking about this fixture 10 years ago, what a game. But still, from a fan’s perspective, this is one of the biggest games in English football.” However, he doesn’t see United putting up much resistance against Mikel Arteta’s side.
With Arsenal needing to win every game to keep their title hopes alive, Merson believes the Gunners will have too much for United. “Historically, United have always turned up against Arsenal, but honestly, I don’t see them doing it this weekend,” he concluded.