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Marcus Rashford has been out of favour at Manchester United. - Oli Scarff/AFP via Getty Images

Marcus Rashford, the talented forward of Manchester United, finds himself at a crossroads in his career. Critics have scrutinized Rashford’s form and performance after the team dropped him from the starting lineup for the recent match against Chelsea. However, his manager, Erik ten Hag, believes in Rashford’s potential and has challenged him to earn his place back through hard work and determination. In this article, we will delve into Rashford’s current struggles, Ten Hag’s perspective on his situation, and the examples set by Harry Maguire and Scott McTominay as they fought their way back into the team. We will also analyze the upcoming challenges for Manchester United and the importance of a strong team in the fiercely competitive Premier League.

Marcus Rashford’s Struggles and Ten Hag’s Confidence

Marcus Rashford has undoubtedly been an exceptional player for Manchester United in the past. However, this season has seen a dip in his form and goal-scoring prowess, leaving many questioning his place in the starting lineup. Ten Hag acknowledges Rashford’s abilities but emphasizes that no player can play every game, and form fluctuates. While Rashford may not be in the same form as the previous season, Ten Hag remains confident that he will regain his stride.

“Rashford is an incredible, good player… he can’t play every game, and he’s not, in this moment, in the form he was last year but I am sure he will get there.” – Erik ten Hag

Ten Hag’s statement reflects his belief in Rashford’s potential and highlights the need for players to continuously prove themselves to earn their place in the team. It is a challenge that Rashford now faces, but one he is capable of overcoming with determination and hard work.

Rashford
Manchester United defender Harry Maguire – Martin Rickett, PA/PA Wire

Lessons from Maguire and McTominay: The Road to Redemption

To demonstrate the path Rashford can take to regain his place, Ten Hag points to the examples of Harry Maguire and Scott McTominay. Both players faced uncertainties and criticisms but managed to fight their way back into the team through their dedication and performances.

Despite facing transfer rumors in the summer, Maguire has become an integral part of Manchester United’s revival under Ten Hag. His solid performances earned him the Premier League’s Player of the Month award for November. Similarly, McTominay, who was initially on the fringes of the squad, has emerged as a key contributor, scoring crucial goals and displaying his value to the team.

Ten Hag emphasizes the importance of internal competition within the squad and the need for more than just 11 players to achieve success. The best players who form the best team will earn their place, and Rashford has the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Maguire and McTominay.

“If you want a successful season, you need more than 11 players… there has to be dedication to aim for this.” – Erik ten Hag

Manchester United’s Upcoming Challenges

As Manchester United looks ahead, they face an in-form Bournemouth side at Old Trafford followed by a must-win Champions League match against Bayern Munich. The team’s focus and determination will be tested, and it is crucial for Ten Hag to select a strong team for each game.

Ten Hag acknowledges the threat posed by Bournemouth, describing them as a well-constructed side with capable players. He emphasizes the need for Manchester United to be at their best in the Premier League, where every game is fiercely competitive and demands a strong team.

“As a manager, my coaches, with the rest of the staff, we always consider everything but the next game is always the most important… you need a strong team.” – Erik ten Hag

Manchester United’s immediate focus is on the Bournemouth game, but the team’s aspirations for success extend to the Champions League as well. To qualify for the round of 16, they must defeat Bayern Munich and hope for a favorable result in the other Group A game. Ten Hag’s primary concern, however, remains the task at hand – overcoming Bournemouth.

Conclusion

Marcus Rashford’s journey to regain his place in the Manchester United starting lineup is a challenging one, but he has the support and belief of his manager, Erik ten Hag. Drawing inspiration from the examples set by Harry Maguire and Scott McTominay, Rashford has the opportunity to prove his worth and contribute to the team’s success. We cannot overstate the importance of a strong team and dedication to excellence as Manchester United prepares to tackle upcoming challenges against Bournemouth and Bayern Munich. With his talent and determination, Rashford has the potential to rise above his current struggles and once again become a key figure for Manchester United.

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