Marcus Rashford’s omission from the Manchester United squad for the hotly anticipated Manchester derby against Manchester City has sparked significant discussion among fans and analysts alike. Joined by Alejandro Garnacho on the sidelines, the absence of these two talented forwards raised eyebrows, especially considering their involvement just before the match.
Rashford, who was not named among the bench players, took to social media after the match, which saw United secure a stunning 2-1 victory against their fierce rivals, posting support for his teammates. He shared an image of Amad Diallo celebrating the decisive goal, captioning it, 'Yesssssssss! Love it lads ❤️❤️.'
The decision to leave out Rashford and Garnacho for the derby, played at the Etihad Stadium, was not related to injuries or disciplinary issues, but rather was attributed to the tactical evaluations made by head coach Ruben Amorim. Amorim stated it was not about “sending a message” but simply his selection process based on performance metrics.
"We tried to evaluate everything: training, performance, game performance, engagement with the teammates, push the teammates up... Everything is on the line when we analyze and try to choose the players," Amorim explained to Sky Sports after the game. "So, my selection. Simple."
Despite both players training well on the morning of the match, Amorim’s choices reveal the pressure he faces to improve team dynamics and performance amid speculation about Rashford's future at the club. Recent reports indicate Manchester United may seek to part ways with the academy graduate during the January transfer window, potentially accepting offers as low as £40 million.
Garnacho’s exclusion is equally perplexing, as he had been involved recently with the team but also faced distractions due to allegations surrounding leaked team information by his brother. United insiders emphasized his omission had nothing to do with these claims, later confirming his participation during training sessions leading up to the game.
After their recent struggles with the squad's performance, the pressure is on Amorim to establish strict standards for player conduct, both on and off the pitch. He has made it abundantly clear how pivotal every aspect of player behavior is during this rebuilding phase, even going so far as to take note of how players dress or interact with one another.
"For me, it’s important: the performance in training, the performance in the game, the way you dress, the way you eat, the way you engage with teammates, the way you push your teammates," Amorim said, reiteratively stressing the need for high standards at the club.
Acknowledging his decision, Amorim conveyed optimism for the duo's future, insisting their absence is not permanent. He opined, “Next week, next game, new life; they are fighting for their places.” This statement leaves the door open for both Rashford and Garnacho to return, depending on their responses to the manager’s demands for higher standards.
Rashford, whose legacy at the club includes consistently impressive contributions—such as scoring six goals against City throughout his career—has faced scrutiny from fans for his recent on-field performances. The discontent was palpable when he was replaced early during United's Europa League clash, where supporters voiced their frustrations.
Garnacho, on the other hand, has established himself as one of the team’s promising young talents, yet his place appears threatened due to recent gossip surrounding his familial connections and alleged leaks. Regardless of these complications, both players are expected to dig deep and earn their spots back on the field.
Despite the headlines surrounding Rashford’s potential exit and Garnacho’s recent issues, City's manager Pep Guardiola made it clear he will not underestimate United or adjust his team's strategy based on the absences. "The squad for United is exceptional," Guardiola remarked, illustrating just how challenging the matchup would remain for both teams.
Even after experiencing such drama surrounding their selection choices, United’s display against City was resolute, offering hope for the future. Many fans are now left wondering how Rashford and Garnacho will respond to the challenge of proving they deserve their spots back on the pitch. Will they rise to the occasion or find their futures elsewhere? It’s unclear, but one thing’s for sure: the next few weeks present opportunities for redemption.
