Fulham vs Manchester United: Amorim prefers 63-year-old coach over Rashford

Ruben Amorim has questioned Marcus Rashford's commitment, preferring dedication over skill in his selection decisions.

Rashford has been absent from Manchester United's matchday squads for six weeks, including Sunday's 1-0 Premier League victory over Fulham. Amorim has cited the forward’s training attitude as the reason for his omission, stating that Rashford has not displayed the commitment required to earn a place in the team.

Speaking to the press after his team's victory, Amorim said “It’s always the same reason – the training, the way I see a footballer should live. It’s every day, every detail,” Amorim said. “If things don’t change, I will not change. It’s the same for every player."

Amorim continued with "If you do the maximum, we can use you. I’d even put [goalkeeping coach Jorge] Vital on the bench before a player who doesn’t give the maximum.”

Rashford, 27, remains in limbo as the January transfer window nears its 3 February deadline. Hopes of a move to AC Milan ended after the arrival of Kyle Walker, while a potential loan to Barcelona hinges on player exits, which seem unlikely.

Rashford hasn't featured for Manchester United since mid-December. He has only been in the matchday squad once since then, as an unused sub in a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United at Old Trafford.

Amorim’s early tenure at Manchester United has been challenging, with Sunday’s win at Fulham marking only their fourth Premier League victory since his arrival in November. A late deflected goal by Lisandro Martinez secured the three points, but the performance was far from convincing.

 

 

 

 

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“We want to play a different style, and we will in the future,” Amorim said. “Today wasn’t our best match, but we managed to win.”

As Manchester United looks to navigate the transfer window, outgoing deals have dominated the agenda. Antony joined Real Betis on loan, and Alejandro Garnacho has been linked with a move, though he started against Fulham and played a role in the match-winner.

Amorim acknowledged the need for caution in the market, referencing past mistakes. “We have to be cautious. We cannot repeat errors from before.”

The club has been linked with Lecce full-back Patrick Dorg and Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku, but for now, Amorim must work with the players at his disposal.