Marcus Rashford appears to be thriving at Aston Villa after leaving Manchester United on loan last month. The 27-year-old, who had fallen out of favour under new United boss Ruben Amorim, seems to have rediscovered his form and confidence under Unai Emery’s guidance.
His recent brace in Villa’s 3-0 FA Cup quarter-final win over Preston not only secured his team a semi-final berth but also sent a strong message about his revitalized career.
Table of Contents
Rashford’s Subtle Dig at Amorim?
Rashford delivered a match-winning performance against Preston, scoring twice—including a well-taken penalty. His contributions were instrumental in Villa’s dominant display, highlighting how well he has settled into his new environment. The forward’s resurgence has also earned him a recall to the England squad under Thomas Tuchel, further underscoring his return to top form.
Speaking to BBC Sport after his standout performance, Rashford hinted at feeling physically and mentally sharper since making the move to Villa.
“It’s a great feeling, I feel like I’ve been getting fitter and playing better football since I’ve been here. It’s obviously nice for a forward to get a goal so hopefully it continues.”
His remarks suggest a renewed sense of purpose, something he appeared to lack in his final months at Old Trafford. Amorim had previously raised concerns about Rashford’s commitment in training, but at Villa, he seems to be flourishing. Rashford also emphasized his desire to keep progressing with his new team.
“I think we have to just take it one game at a time and give it 100 per cent on the pitch and see where it takes us. We’re a very ambitious team – we want to win and try and get as far as we can in all competitions and we also want to push to get back into the top four.”
Tactical Misfit at United, Perfect Fit at Villa?
Football pundit Micah Richards believes Rashford is simply a better fit for Villa’s tactical setup than United’s evolving system under Amorim.
“The difference is Emery has got a structure, he’s got a plan. Under Ten Hag it was difficult and the new manager Amorim has found it difficult to put across exactly what he wants.”
Richards highlighted the challenge Rashford faced at United, where his role was unclear.
“If you’re going to play a different formation, where is he gonna play? Is he going to play in one of the front three positions or maybe as a wing-back? It doesn’t really suit him.”
In contrast, Emery’s system has provided Rashford with the freedom to express himself, utilizing his pace and attacking instincts effectively. Former Villa forward Dion Dublin echoed this sentiment, stating that when Rashford is at his best, he can start for any top team.
“When Marcus is on it and playing well and you’re giving him what he needs, he can start for any team in world football. He’s that good.”
Joe Hart: ‘No More Question Marks’ Over Rashford
Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart also weighed in, suggesting that Rashford’s move to Villa has removed the uncertainties that surrounded him at United.
“He’s come here with people around him who know what they’re doing. He’s not come here with questions marks about how he’s going to behave and what he’s going to do and how he’s going to change the team.”
Hart compared Rashford’s current situation to his final months at United.
“When he was at Man United at the end of his career there, it was constantly ‘where’s he gonna play? How is he gonna play? what’s the manager gonna do?’. No one questions Unai Emery because he’s established himself.”
A Permanent Move on the Horizon?
Rashford has spent his entire career at United, making 426 appearances and scoring 138 goals. His contract at Old Trafford runs until 2028, but with Villa holding an option to sign him permanently, a long-term switch could be on the cards.
His performances under Emery suggest he is rediscovering the form that once made him one of England’s most exciting talents. If he continues on this trajectory, Rashford might not just secure a permanent move to Villa but also re-establish himself as a key player for the national team.
For now, his subtle but pointed remarks about his fitness and form will certainly be noted at Old Trafford—especially by Ruben Amorim.
Read More: Brazil Legends Edge India All-Stars 2-1 in a Night of Football Nostalgia
FAQs
Why did Marcus Rashford leave Manchester United for Aston Villa?
Rashford fell out of favour under new United boss Ruben Amorim and moved to Villa on loan, where he has regained form and confidence.
How has Marcus Rashford performed at Aston Villa?
He has excelled under Unai Emery, scoring key goals, including a brace in the FA Cup quarter-final, and earning a recall to the England squad.
Did Marcus Rashford take a dig at Ruben Amorim?
Yes, Rashford hinted at feeling fitter and enjoying his football more since joining Villa, indirectly suggesting dissatisfaction with his role at United.
Will Aston Villa sign Marcus Rashford permanently?
Villa has an option to buy him at the end of the season, and given his impressive form, a permanent move seems likely.
What did football pundits say about Rashford’s move?
Micah Richards and Joe Hart believe he suits Villa’s system better, while Dion Dublin stated Rashford can start for any top team when at his best.
