Marcus Rashford only played 15 minutes for England during the latest international break, with Gareth Southgate explaining that he wanted to give Anthony Gordon an opportunity. Rashford was left on the bench for both the friendly against Belgium and the match against Brazil, in which he only played a short cameo. Despite being named in the squad, Rashford struggled to find playing time. This decision led some to speculate that Rashford might be carrying an injury, but Southgate clarified that this was not the case.
Rashford’s lack of playing time for England is just one aspect of what has been a challenging season for the Manchester United forward. He has scored only eight goals for his club this season, a significant decrease from his 30 goals last season. This dip in form has also affected his performances for England, with Rashford scoring only twice since the start of 2023. Rumors of a potential move away from Old Trafford have surfaced, with Paris Saint-Germain reportedly interested in the striker. However, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has dismissed these rumors, emphasizing Rashford’s importance to the club’s future.
Rashford’s focus now will be on regaining his form in order to secure a place in the England squad for the upcoming Euros in Germany. With his contract at Manchester United running until 2028, Rashford will be looking to prove his worth and contribute to both club and country. Before the international break, Rashford had been in good form for United, scoring in three consecutive games against Manchester City, Everton, and Liverpool. With crucial Premier League fixtures against Brentford and Chelsea coming up, Rashford will have the opportunity to showcase his talent and earn a place in the England squad for the Euros.
The decision to give Anthony Gordon playing time over Marcus Rashford highlights the competition for places in the England squad. Southgate’s desire to evaluate different players and tactical options underscores the depth of talent available to the national team. While Rashford’s limited role in the latest international break may be disappointing for him, it also serves as a reminder of the challenges and opportunities that come with representing one’s country at the highest level. As Rashford looks to bounce back from a difficult season, the upcoming fixtures for Manchester United will be crucial in determining his form and potential contribution to England’s Euros campaign.
Ultimately, Marcus Rashford’s journey as a professional footballer is marked by both success and setbacks, reflecting the highs and lows of elite sports. His resilience and determination have been key components of his career, and he will need to draw upon these qualities as he navigates through a challenging period. With the support of his team, both at Manchester United and in the England setup, Rashford will have the opportunity to prove his worth and make a significant impact on the pitch. As the Euros approach, Rashford will be focused on delivering his best performances and making a strong case for his inclusion in the England squad.
