Fans are concerned that Marcus Rashford could end up like Jesse Lingard if he doesn’t make changes to his approach. Troy Deeney has shared advice on how Rashford can regain his top form, emphasizing the need for a strong start, particularly in the upcoming match against Manchester City.
Rashford, once a promising talent, now faces a crossroads in his career. His recent struggles, combined with a decline in attitude, raise questions about his commitment and long-term future at Manchester United. Despite managerial changes at the club, his underlying issues persist.
At 27, Rashford should be entering the peak years of his career, yet his current behavior suggests a lack of motivation, similar to a player winding down rather than one in the prime of their career. This is in stark contrast to players like Jamie Vardy, who remains determined well into his late 30s.
Rashford’s inconsistency on the field—while still showing occasional flashes of brilliance—has become a concern. His lack of effort and tendency to shift blame for mistakes show a worrying trend.
Manchester United’s culture, which rewards mediocrity with high-paying contracts, has contributed to Rashford’s decline. As an academy product and fan favorite, he often seems to retreat into self-pity rather than taking responsibility for his performance.
This cycle of brief comebacks followed by poor form and eventual benchings has become all too familiar. In a recent game against Viktoria Plzen, manager Ruben Amorim substituted Rashford, expressing visible frustration. While Amorim has shown support, he has made it clear that improvement must come from Rashford himself.
Although some cite the negative environment at United as a factor in Rashford’s struggles, other players, such as Harry Maguire and Bruno Fernandes, have adapted, and young players like Kobbie Mainoo show a hunger for improvement. This suggests Rashford’s problems are more personal than environmental.
Rashford needs to take responsibility for his own development. Without hard work, discipline, and passion, his results will continue to fall short of expectations.
Rashford’s options for a move away from United are limited. Few top Premier League clubs would be willing to match his wages, and while a move abroad might be an option, it’s unclear whether a fresh start would reignite his motivation.
Despite seeing the decline of players like Jesse Lingard, Rashford seems to ignore the warning signs. If he doesn’t change, his career risks being one of unfulfilled potential. He needs to reflect on his situation and decide whether he’s ready to work to save his career.
Rashford’s rise from academy star to Manchester United icon has brought significant pressure, and his recent decline has been difficult for fans to watch. His undeniable talent should be leading to consistent performances at 27, but his lack of urgency and negative body language suggest deeper issues.
Manchester United’s culture of rewarding underperformance with large contracts has contributed to this situation. As a senior player, Rashford must take on more responsibility and set a better example.
In comparison to teammates like Bruno Fernandes, Harry Maguire, and Kobbie Mainoo, who are thriving despite similar pressures, Rashford’s struggles seem to be rooted in personal rather than circumstantial factors.
To avoid a fate similar to Lingard’s, Rashford must make significant changes: seek mental support, consider a fresh start at a new club, and consistently demonstrate effort and determination.
Rashford’s situation serves as a cautionary tale for Manchester United about the dangers of poor squad management. The club must foster an environment that rewards hard work and discourages complacency to prevent other young talents from following the same path.
Ultimately, Rashford must take control of his career and decide if he’s willing to do the hard work necessary to regain his former level and avoid a wasted potential.
