Ruben Amorim Explains How Marcus Rashford Can Return to Manchester United Squad
Marcus Rashford’s form at Manchester United has been a subject of intense discussion in recent months, with many fans and pundits questioning his role in the squad. The England international has seen fluctuating performances, which have led to speculation about his future at Old Trafford. However, Ruben Amorim, the Sporting CP manager who has worked closely with players at the top level, recently weighed in on how Rashford can regain his place as a key figure in Manchester United’s starting lineup. Amorim, known for his tactical understanding and his success in developing young talent, outlined several key areas where Rashford can improve to return to his best form and re-establish himself as an essential part of United’s squad.
Understanding Marcus Rashford’s Current Struggles
Rashford, who burst onto the scene at Manchester United as a teenager with incredible pace, skill, and goal-scoring ability, has faced some challenges in recent seasons. After a standout 2022/2023 campaign, where he was one of the Premier League’s top scorers, his form has been inconsistent in the 2023/2024 season. The forward has struggled with injuries and form, which has impacted his ability to produce the same level of performances that saw him become a household name in English football.
The pressure surrounding Rashford’s form has only grown, as Manchester United continues to search for stability under manager Erik ten Hag. While Rashford has not been the only player under scrutiny, his recent drop in performance levels has been particularly noticeable due to the expectation placed on him as one of United’s most prominent attacking talents.
Ruben Amorim’s Advice for Rashford’s Return
Ruben Amorim, who has garnered attention for his management skills at Sporting CP, is known for his ability to turn players into elite-level performers. When discussing Marcus Rashford’s struggles and how he can return to form, Amorim emphasized several key points that could be crucial for Rashford’s revival at Manchester United.
- Refining Tactical Discipline and Consistency
Amorim believes that one of the key elements for Rashford’s return to form is improving his tactical discipline and consistency in his performances. While Rashford has always been known for his attacking flair and natural ability, Amorim suggests that focusing on a more balanced and disciplined approach to his game could help him regain the trust of Erik ten Hag and the Manchester United fans.
By being more consistent in his positioning and decision-making, Rashford can provide a more reliable outlet for United in the attacking third. Amorim stressed the importance of Rashford adapting to different tactical setups, something he has had to do in his own managerial career with Sporting CP. If Rashford can become more adaptable and aware of the tactical demands of his role, he will be better equipped to perform across various attacking positions, whether as a winger or forward.
- Focus on Mental Resilience
Ruben Amorim also touched on the mental aspect of Rashford’s game. After a season where Rashford experienced significant highs, including a World Cup appearance and being Manchester United’s standout player, dealing with a dip in form can be mentally taxing. Amorim emphasized the importance of mental resilience and the need for Rashford to block out external pressure.
Rashford’s ability to overcome these mental hurdles is crucial for him to regain his confidence and consistency. Amorim pointed out that top players are those who can deal with the psychological demands of football, particularly during challenging times. For Rashford, staying focused on improving and not getting bogged down by external criticism will be pivotal in rediscovering his form.
- Improving Link-Up Play
Another area where Amorim believes Rashford can improve is his link-up play with teammates. In previous seasons, Rashford’s style of play has often seen him operate as an isolated attacking threat, relying on his individual abilities to create chances. Amorim suggests that Rashford could benefit from improving his chemistry with his Manchester United teammates, particularly in tight situations where combination play can unlock defenses.
By becoming more involved in team-oriented attacking movements and improving his passing and decision-making in the final third, Rashford could add a new dimension to his game. Amorim highlighted that even the most talented forwards must balance individual brilliance with the ability to contribute to the team’s overall attacking strategy.
- Maintaining Physical Fitness
Finally, Amorim stressed the importance of maintaining physical fitness. Rashford has struggled with injuries in recent seasons, and Amorim believes that keeping a consistent level of fitness is crucial for the forward to maintain his explosiveness and agility. By committing to a rigorous training regimen and focusing on injury prevention, Rashford can ensure that his body is in peak condition to perform at the highest level.
The Road Ahead for Rashford
In conclusion, Ruben Amorim’s insights provide valuable guidance for Marcus Rashford as he looks to rediscover his best form and return to the Manchester United starting XI. By focusing on improving his tactical discipline, mental resilience, link-up play, and maintaining physical fitness, Rashford can overcome his current struggles and return to being one of United’s most influential players. With the right mindset and adjustments to his game, Rashford has the potential to reclaim his place as a key figure in Erik ten Hag’s plans for the future.
