Ruben Amorim Faces Challenge of Reviving Marcus Rashford's Form at Manchester United
Ruben Amorim’s early days as Manchester United manager have already highlighted one of his biggest tasks: rediscovering the best version of Marcus Rashford. After a turbulent final season under Erik ten Hag, Rashford has struggled to recapture the form that saw him score 30 goals in the 2022/23 season. His decline in form, with just eight goals and five assists in 43 appearances last term, has raised concerns about his future at Old Trafford. Amorim, who has only overseen two matches so far, is keen to turn things around for the England international.
Despite Amorim’s relatively short tenure, the manager has already identified key areas of concern. After a 1-1 draw at Ipswich, Amorim secured his first win with a 3-2 triumph over Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League. A standout performer in that match was new signing Rasmus Højlund, who scored twice and impressed with his pressing game. However, Rashford’s role in the manager’s 3-4-3 system remains uncertain.
Mark Lawrenson, former Liverpool defender, believes one of Amorim’s top priorities should be unlocking Rashford’s potential, especially after his disappointing performances last season. Lawrenson pointed out that while Rashford was played through the middle against Ipswich and even scored, his overall performance was far from convincing. “He didn’t look like the same player he used to be,” Lawrenson said. “He doesn’t seem as quick, his finishing isn’t as sharp, and his overall attitude doesn’t seem as positive. I can’t pinpoint what’s wrong, but something’s off.”
Rashford’s struggles have been compounded by United’s limited striking options. With Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee not yet fully ready for a starting role, Amorim has been forced to rely on Rashford as a central striker. However, Amorim admitted that this role may not suit the forward. Speaking before the Bodo/Glimt match, the United manager explained, “I will try to help him. That position is not the best for him, especially in a game like Ipswich, where we had to press high and play direct. Rashford was up against two giants, and it wasn’t easy.”
Amorim stressed the importance of Rashford taking responsibility for his revival. “He has to be the first one to want it,” Amorim said. “If he gets back to his best, he will have all the support from the staff, the club, and the fans, because he’s a Manchester United boy.”
The challenge for Amorim is clear: finding the right position and role for Rashford in his system, while helping the forward rediscover the qualities that made him one of Europe’s most dangerous attackers. With the right guidance and his own self-belief, Rashford can yet return to his best and become a key figure under Amorim’s reign.
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