Amorim questions ‘choices’ of people close to United forward

Ruben Amorim has questioned the “choices” of those in Marcus Rashford’s camp as speculation over the forward’s future at Old Trafford intensifies.

The Manchester United boss called into question the decision-making of those close to Rashford after the 27-year-old revealed to journalist Henry Winter he is “ready for a new challenge”.

The England international made the comments after being left out of the matchday squad for United’s 2-1 win over rivals Manchester City on 15 December.

Rashford subsequently missed the 4-3 Carabao Cup quarter-final defeat by Tottenham and was also left out as United were beaten 3-0 by Bournemouth on Sunday.

Defeat.#MUFC || #MUNBOU

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 22, 2024

Amorim’s side are currently 13th in the Premier League table as uncertainty over whether Rashford will remain a United player in January grows.

“It is a hard situation,” Amorim told Sky Sports.

“I understand these players have a lot of people around them, making choices that are not the first idea from the player.

“They chose to do the interview as it is not just Marcus.”

However, the Portuguese manager insisted his is still focussed on his relationship with the player and added it is for Rashford and the club “to deal with that when the time comes”.

Amorim said: “At the moment I’m focused on improving Marcus.

“We need a talented guy like Marcus. I forget the interview now and see what I see on the pitch.”

Since making his debut in 2016 after coming through the youth set-up, Rashford has scored 138 goals in 426 appearances for United.

However, he has struggled for form during the last few seasons and his performances have attracted criticism from fans and pundits alike.

United face Wolves at Molineux on 26 December before hosting Newcastle four days later.