As the 2024/25 football season progresses, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has set high expectations for star forward Marcus Rashford. After enduring a difficult end to last season, Rashford has made a strong start to this campaign, signaling a return to form with a brace in United’s emphatic 7-0 Carabao Cup win over Barnsley. Ten Hag believes Rashford’s goal-scoring ability will be crucial to United’s ambitions, both in the Premier League and Europa League. However, the manager has emphasized that confidence and consistency will be key for the 26-year-old to maintain his momentum.
Rashford’s Strong Start to the Season
Marcus Rashford has been a central figure at Old Trafford for many years, coming through the club’s academy and establishing himself as one of the most talented forwards in England. However, after a goal drought that extended back to March 2024, questions began to arise about his form and confidence.
The new season has brought a fresh start for Rashford. In United’s Premier League victory over Southampton, Rashford scored his first club goal in six months, signaling his return to form. Just days later, in a Carabao Cup tie against Barnsley, he netted two goals, further confirming his resurgence. His goalscoring in both games has renewed hope among Manchester United supporters, who are eager to see him reclaim his role as the team’s primary attacking threat.
Ten Hag’s Confidence in Rashford
After the match against Barnsley, Erik ten Hag was full of praise for the England international. Speaking to reporters, Ten Hag said, “The goals not only have to come from Marcus Rashford. We need more goalscorers, but I know from my first season here, when he scores, it’s easier for the team.”
This statement highlights the critical role that Rashford plays in United’s attack. According to Ten Hag, His presence and ability to find the back of the net help relieve pressure on the team. The manager believes that having a reliable goal-scorer like Rashford can make a significant difference in tight matches. “Football matches are decided in the box,” Ten Hag added, indicating that Rashford’s finishing will be essential in key moments this season.
Rashford’s Role in United’s Title Ambitions
Manchester United has set high expectations for the 2024/25 season, aiming to compete for the Premier League title and make a deep run in the Europa League. For United to achieve these objectives, he will need to maintain his current form and stay healthy throughout the season.
As Ten Hag noted, “Confidence is a big part of it, but there are also other parts.” The manager emphasized that while confidence is critical, his consistency and discipline will also be pivotal. In a competitive league like the Premier League, where every point matters, having a forward who can consistently deliver goals is vital. Rashford’s ability to rise to the occasion in big games will likely determine how far United can go in their quest for silverware.
Ten Hag’s Challenge to Other Players
While Marcus Rashford is expected to be a key player this season, Erik ten Hag was quick to point out that the goals should not rely solely on the 26-year-old forward. “I’m not only expecting this from Marcus, I expect it from others who are in the prime of their career,” Ten Hag said, addressing the need for other United players to step up and contribute to the team’s goal tally.
With a squad that includes players like Bruno Fernandes, Jadon Sancho, and Antony, Manchester United is not short of attacking options. Ten Hag has made it clear that Rashford cannot carry the entire burden and that his teammates must share the responsibility of scoring goals. The manager also mentioned younger talents like Alejandro Garnacho, who have shown potential and are “very hungry to score goals.”
The Importance of Consistency
One of the major themes in Ten Hag’s comments about Rashford is the importance of consistency. “You are as good as your last game, and every time you have to prove it,” the Dutchman said, reflecting the pressure that comes with playing for a top club like Manchester United. While Rashford has made a promising start to the season, the challenge will be maintaining that level of performance over the course of the campaign.
Historically, Rashford has been prone to periods of inconsistency, where brilliant performances are followed by extended goal droughts. If Manchester United is to challenge for trophies this season, he will need to avoid such slumps and continue delivering week in and week out. As Ten Hag pointed out, even the best players can lose confidence when they are not scoring. The key for Rashford will be staying focused and taking his chances when they come.
Looking Ahead: Manchester United’s Next Challenges
As the 2024/25 season heats up, Manchester United faces a demanding schedule that includes tough Premier League fixtures and the start of their Europa League campaign. United’s next league match against Crystal Palace will be another opportunity for Rashford to continue his scoring streak. Following that, the team will turn their attention to their opening Europa League tie against FC Twente.
Rashford’s performance in these upcoming fixtures will be crucial, as United aims to build momentum and establish themselves as serious contenders in both competitions. Erik ten Hag will undoubtedly be counting on him to lead the attack, but the manager’s comments also suggest that he expects the entire squad to rise to the occasion.
Conclusion: Rashford’s Critical Role in Manchester United’s 2024/25 Campaign
Marcus Rashford has already shown glimpses of his best form at the start of the 2024/25 season, and Erik ten Hag is backing him to be a central figure in Manchester United’s ambitions. With two goals in United’s recent win over Barnsley,he has proven that he can be the reliable goal-scorer the team needs. However, Ten Hag’s comments emphasize the importance of confidence, consistency, and support from the rest of the squad.
As United looks to challenge for both Premier League and Europa League titles, Rashford’s performance will be one of the key factors determining the team’s success. The stage is set for the 26-year-old forward to have a standout season, and with Ten Hag’s trust, Rashford has the opportunity to elevate his game to new heights.
ALSO READ:Man Utd Receive Major Fitness Boost as Leny Yoro Steps Up Recovery from Foot Injury
