Rio Ferdinand has raised doubts over Marcus Rashford’s future at Manchester United following a scathing critique from manager Ruben Amorim.
Rashford, who hasn’t featured since December 12, was once again omitted from the squad as United edged past Fulham with a 1-0 victory on Sunday.
Amorim was unrelenting in his criticism of the 27-year-old forward, suggesting Rashford’s lack of effort in training was the reason for his continued exclusion.
“It’s always the same reason,” Amorim explained. “The reason is training, the way I see what a footballer should do—every day, every detail. If things don’t change, I will not change.”
The manager even joked that he would select veteran goalkeeping coach Jorge Vital over Rashford, emphasizing his non-negotiable standards.
“I will put Vital on the bench before I put a player that doesn’t give the maximum every day,” Amorim added.
Though it seemed inevitable earlier this month that Rashford would leave, a transfer has yet to materialize. Barcelona, his preferred destination, lack the financial resources to make a move, while United are reluctant to loan him to a Premier League rival.
As the transfer window approaches its February 3 deadline, Rashford’s prospects of remaining at United are growing.
However, Ferdinand believes Amorim’s comments may have sealed Rashford’s fate. “For someone to question your application, to say you’re taking shortcuts, that’s a damning comment,” Ferdinand remarked on his Rio Presents YouTube channel. “There’s no way back for Marcus after that. If he does return, it sends a message that shortcuts are acceptable.”
Ferdinand also suggested Rashford should publicly defend himself if Amorim’s claims are untrue. “If it isn’t true, I’d hold a press conference and say, ‘I’m not having anyone say that about me.’ But you only do that if you’re 100 percent sure no one can question your effort,” Ferdinand said.
As tensions escalate, Rashford’s path back into the team appears increasingly unlikely. Whether he stays or departs, the fallout from Amorim’s remarks could mark a turning point in his career at Manchester United.