Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is focusing on revitalizing Marcus Rashford’s form, which has significantly dipped since his stellar 2022/23-season. According to former Liverpool defender Mark Lawrenson, one of Amorim’s main tasks will be to help Rashford rediscover his best-version.
Amorim, who is just two matches into his United tenure, has already pinpointed several areas that need improvement. After a disappointing 1-1 draw against Ipswich, he secured his first victory as manager with a 3-2 win over Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League, where new signing Rasmus Hojlund impressed by scoring twice and assisting Alejandro Garnacho’s opener.
However, Rashford’s role under Amorim’s 3-4-3 system remains uncertain. Despite a breakout year in 2022/23, where Rashford netted 30 goals, his form has significantly dropped since. Last-season, he scored just eight-goals and provided five-assists across 43-matches, and he’s now been left out of the England squad.
Lawrenson highlighted Rashford’s current struggles, which include a lack of pace, inconsistent finishing, and a seeming lack of confidence. “He doesn’t look as quick as he used to, his finishing isn’t the same, and his overall attitude doesn’t seem positive,” Lawrenson said. “It’s hard to pinpoint what’s wrong with him.”
Rashford played centrally against Ipswich but didn’t make the desired impact. Amorim acknowledged this, explaining that the role wasn’t ideal for Rashford, especially given the high-pressure nature of the match. He stressed that Rashford needs to find his form, with the support of the club and fans, but also emphasized that the player must take responsibility for his own resurgence.
“I will try to help him,” Amorim said. “That position is not the best one for him, especially in a game like that. We had to play with high pressure, and he was fighting against two giants. We’ll find the right solution for him.”
With other strikers like Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee still adjusting to the team, Rashford will likely continue to be a key part of Amorim’s attack, but his ability to recapture his former performance will be critical for United’s success this season.
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