Manchester United Struggles Persist as Marcus Rashford Faces Growing Criticism Amid Goal Drought
Manchester United’s goal-scoring woes continue, with just two goals in three matches and a concerning record of missed big chances. Last season, the team under Erik ten Hag struggled offensively, ranking as joint-lowest scorers among the Premier League’s top 10 clubs. Outside of Rasmus Hojlund, none of the forwards, including Marcus Rashford, made a significant impact.
After a stellar 2022/23 season, Rashford’s form has taken a drastic dip, managing only eight goals last season and failing to earn a place in England’s Euro squad under Gareth Southgate. This decline led to debates about whether to sell him over the summer.
Although Manchester United chose to retain him, Rashford has faced an ultimatum to perform better. However, the forward has yet to score or provide an assist this season, which has drawn sharp criticism from pundits and former players alike.
Rashford’s camp has expressed concerns that the player is being unfairly targeted, feeling that he is being scapegoated for the team’s broader issues, especially the misfiring attack.
According to a source close to Rashford, the criticism he faces is relentless, bordering on bullying. They argue that while others’ mistakes go unnoticed, Rashford’s are heavily scrutinized, which has intensified the negativity surrounding him.
Despite the criticism, Rashford remains one of the key creators for United, ranking joint-second for big chances created. He has struggled to get assists, with teammates missing opportunities, like Joshua Zirkzee’s missed chances against Liverpool.
The 26-year-old has been training alone during the international break, signaling his desire to turn his form around and prove his commitment to the club.
However, Rashford’s supporters believe that he needs more backing from fans and former players instead of constant negativity.
As the pressure mounts, it is evident that Rashford must rediscover his form and contribute on the field to silence his critics and help Manchester United find their scoring rhythm once again.
Manchester United Struggles Persist as Marcus Rashford Faces Growing Criticism Amid Goal Drought