Context: Marcus Rashford’s Omission and Struggles at Manchester United
Marcus Rashford’s recent exclusion from Manchester United’s starting line-up in their Premier League match against Crystal Palace surprised many, especially given his return to form with three goals in two games. Erik ten Hag explained his decision as a part of squad rotation, but Rashford’s underwhelming contribution over the past year also played a role. Rashford’s goal in the victory over Southampton two weeks ago was his first Premier League goal in six months, following a slump that contributed to his omission from England’s Euro 2024 campaign.
Quote from Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink on Rashford’s Decline:
“Yes. Hell, yes. When he’s playing off the left and he’s playing his best football, he’s a very, very good player. He’s a top player. When he was at his top level, he used to sprint so much and run in behind the defence. He used to work so hard running at defenders. That’s when Marcus is at his best … and I just don’t see that anymore.”
Context: Hasselbaink’s View on Rashford’s Physical Commitment
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, who served as a striker coach for Gareth Southgate, expressed confusion over Rashford’s recent lack of impact at United. He suggested that Rashford has lost some of his focus and isn’t pushing himself to his physical limits anymore. Hasselbaink believes Rashford, known for his explosive pace, should be putting in more effort both with and without the ball.
Quote from Hasselbaink on Rashford’s Physical Effort:
“For a player like Rashford, when one of your main attributes is that explosive pace, you have to suffer for your art. You have to be prepared to give everything to work as hard with and without the ball, and that means, you need to feel a little bit of pain because it takes a lot of physical power to ask your body to do that in every single game. I don’t see a player that is willing to push himself like he used to.”
Context: Responsibility for Improvement
Hasselbaink insists that Rashford’s improvement must come from within. While Ten Hag can guide the player, it’s ultimately up to Rashford to find the desire and mental strength to regain his best form.
Quote from Hasselbaink on Rashford’s Responsibility:
“It’s not just Ten Hag’s responsibility for Rashford to improve, there has to be the desire from the player. There is no doubt that Marcus Rashford has the ability. It’s a mental thing. It’s down to him to see that improvement. Only Marcus Rashford can unlock himself.”
This restructuring groups the context and quotes, highlighting Hasselbaink’s reflections on Rashford’s form, physical commitment, and responsibility for improvement.
