Manchester United’s head coach, Ruben Amorim, has made waves with his no-nonsense approach to managing players, sending a clear message to the squad that mediocrity will not be tolerated.
The ongoing tension between Amorim and Marcus Rashford has been the talk of the town, and it’s now clear that Amorim’s standards extend beyond just match performances—it’s about daily commitment, attitude, and discipline.
Marcus Rashford has been noticeably absent from Manchester United’s last 11 matchday squads. The reason? Amorim’s frustration with the forward’s lack of application in training. In a post-match interview after United’s narrow 1-0 victory over Fulham, Amorim was blunt when asked if Rashford could still have a future under him.
“It’s always the same reason,” Amorim said. “The reason is the training, the way I see what a footballer should do. In training, in life, every day, every detail. If things don’t change, I will not change.”
With the January transfer window closing soon, the question remains: will Rashford move on, or will he adapt to Amorim’s exacting standards? The answer may determine the forward’s fate at Old Trafford.
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Amorim’s philosophy is crystal clear: he values commitment and hard work above all else. He even went so far as to suggest that he would rather place his 63-year-old goalkeeper coach, Jorge Vital, on the bench than include a player who does not give their maximum effort. This bold statement underscores the Portuguese manager’s belief that a winning mentality starts on the training ground.
“I will put Vital [on the bench] before I put a player that doesn’t give the maximum every day,” Amorim declared. “So I will not change in that.”
The statement highlights Amorim’s unwavering commitment to instilling discipline and a high-performance culture at Manchester United, even if it means sidelining one of the team’s most recognizable stars.
The Rashford Dilemma: A Lesson for the Squad
Marcus Rashford has long been a fan favorite at Old Trafford, known for his speed, creativity, and knack for scoring in big games. However, Amorim’s decision to freeze him out serves as a stark reminder that talent alone is not enough. It’s a lesson that echoes throughout the squad—every player must earn their spot through consistent effort.
His tough love approach has drawn mixed reactions. Some fans believe it’s the kind of accountability United have needed for years, while others worry about the potential loss of a homegrown star. Regardless, the message is clear: no one is bigger than the team.
Højlund and Zirkzee Struggle Upfront
United’s lack of firepower was evident during their match against Fulham, where Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee struggled to make an impact. Højlund, who has scored seven goals in all competitions this season, endured a difficult night and was replaced by Zirkzee, who fared no better.
The absence of an in-form Rashford has undoubtedly left a void in United’s attack. While Amorim acknowledged the team’s need for pace and creativity, he remains steadfast in his principles.
“You can see it today on the bench—we miss a little bit of pace to change the game,” Amorim admitted. “But I prefer [it] like that than to have someone who doesn’t give their maximum.”
At just 40 years old, Ruben Amorim is tasked with revitalizing a Manchester United side that has struggled for consistency in recent years. His bold decisions and willingness to confront underperformance have already made an impact, even if the results are not yet fully reflective of his vision.
“You cannot see a great improvement in the team and that is a fact,” Amorim said candidly. “But to win helps us to improve. We’ve had some lack of luck in some games. Today was not the best match, but we managed to win.”
The victory over Fulham may not have been a classic, but it showcased the defensive solidity and determination Amorim is trying to instill. With Lisandro Martínez’s deflected winner and Toby Collyer’s late heroics, the team demonstrated the grit that Amorim demands.
As the January transfer window nears its close, Rashford’s future hangs in the balance. Will he stay at United and embrace Amorim’s high standards, or will he seek a fresh start elsewhere? For now, Amorim’s focus remains on the players willing to give their all, and he’s made it clear that he will not compromise.
Rashford’s situation is a cautionary tale for the rest of the squad. It’s a stark reminder that even the most talented players must earn their place through consistent effort and professionalism. For Amorim, the path to success lies in creating a culture where every player is held accountable, both on and off the pitch.
