Marcus Rashford: Manchester United forward says he is ready for a new challenge

Manchester United striker Marcus Rashford says he is “ready for a new challenge” after being asked about his future at the club.

Rashford, 27, was dropped from the squad for Sunday’s derby in which United beat Manchester City 2-1.

New manager Ruben Amorim confirmed there were no disciplinary issues behind his decision but appeared to hint that he expected to see more of the England player on and off the field during his first weeks in charge.

In an interview with football writer Henry Winter published in X, Rashford said: “If I know a situation is already bad I’m not going to make it worse. I’ve seen other players leave in the past and I don’t want to be that person.” .

“When I leave I will make a statement and it will be from me.

“When I leave, there will be no hard feelings. You won’t have any negative comments from me about Manchester United. That’s me as a person.

“For me personally, I think I’m ready for a new challenge and the next steps.”

Rashford has scored 138 goals in 426 appearances for the club since making his debut in 2016, having come through United’s youth ranks.

The 2022-23 campaign was his most prolific when he scored 30 in all competitions.

However, he has struggled for form over the past 18 months and attracted criticism from pundits and fans for a series of plodding performances.

Asked about his decision to omit Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho from his matchday squad at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, Amorim said: “It is important to say that it was not a disciplinary matter.

“Next week, the next game, new life and they are fighting for places. For me the important thing is performance in training, performance in the game, the way of dressing, the way of eating, the way of relating.” with the team.