After months of struggle, Marcus Rashford is showing signs of returning to his commendable form at Manchester United. The talented winger, who spent the last season battling inconsistency, has started the 2024-25 football season with newfound vigor as he lights up the pitch with three goals over his last two outings. These include standout performances against Southampton and Barnsley, where he showcased his scoring prowess once again.
Rashford's resurgence is no small relief for United, who relied heavily on him during Erik ten Hag’s inaugural season. During the 2022-23 season, the then-25-year-old netted 30 goals, establishing himself as one of the primary scoring threats. Yet, following such heights, last season saw him slump with just eight goals, leaving many wondering if he could reclaim his form.
Much of the ink spilled over Rashford's performance has pointed to issues surrounding his professionalism and discipline. There were noticeably troubling incidents—like the time he missed training following a birthday bash after one of the team's disheartening losses. Ten Hag didn't shy away from calling out such behavior as "unacceptable," hinting at the need for Rashford to make adjustments outside football to find his way back to form.
During this rocky phase, Rashford's energy levels were often criticized. Certain pundits voiced concern, questioning whether the once-invincible forward was still fit to wear the United badge. Rashford responded to those critiques with defiance, claiming it was unfair to target him alone for performance dips.
Fortunately, the winds are changing for the player. He is gaining momentum, scoring two goals against Barnsley just days after contributing the second goal against Southampton. Analysts and fans alike got to see him glide past defenders, slotting the ball confidently as if the previous season of despair was merely a distant memory.
Ten Hag has consistently backed Rashford, emphasizing his belief in the player even during the low points. Something about Rashford’s potential keeps the manager hopeful. Ten Hag stated, "When he sets his professionalism, he will perform because he is a class player." The coach urged him to align his lifestyle and training mentality with the high standards expected at Manchester United.
It’s clear: the team benefits significantly when Rashford is at his best. The performances he has delivered recently not only boost his own confidence but also inject vibrancy and potency back to the squad. For Ten Hag, watching his star flyer excel is incredibly encouraging.
Looking back on the changes he has made, Rashford recognizes the necessity for growth and improvement. After struggling with his standing this season, he has taken proactive steps within the training grounds and his personal life. These adjustments have reinforced the importance of maintaining balance—both on and off the field. He aims to carry this momentum forward against teams like Crystal Palace, who soon await United on the schedule.
The match against Palace will serve as another litmus test, not only for Rashford’s form but also for Ten Hag's strategy as he tries to reignite the flames of last season’s success. If his recent performances are any indication, excitement surrounds the prospect of Rashford helping to lead United back to glory.
Rashford's potential return to form doesn't come without external expectations. With England's interim manager, Lee Carsley, watching closely, the question of whether Rashford will earn back his national team spot is presently unclear. He has not donned the Three Lions jersey since March, making United's struggle—indeed, his own—a spotlight hovering above as he works to regain his past acclaim.
Erik ten Hag will be counting on Rashford's renewed energy as Manchester United prepares to navigate the intense waters of the Premier League. With the striker finding his voice again, the Red Devils might just have the offensive spark they desperately need this season. For fans, seeing Rashford back to his agile best, cutting through defenses and finding the net regularly, remains the hope of the hour.
Yet, questions linger over what the future might hold for both Rashford and the team. Will he maintain the discipline needed to keep him on this upward path? And as the season rolls on, United hope to leverage not just Rashford's talent, but also the adapted system under Ten Hag's management, as they eye silverware and resurgence.
It’s no secret Rashford's performances are intertwined with the team’s overall success—a collective force driving ambition and morale forward. Should he continue with this upward momentum, it may well pave the way for exciting times not only for Rashford but for Manchester United as they aim to reclaim their former glory.
