Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag believes that Marcus Rashford’s omission from England’s Euro 2024 squad could serve as motivation for the striker to regain his top form, according to a report by BBC Sports.
Rashford was left out of Gareth Southgate’s expanded squad for the European Championship, a decision based on the 26-year-old’s underwhelming performance this season.
Southgate justified the exclusion by stating that Rashford “has simply not played well enough this season.” This marks a stark contrast to the previous season, where Rashford enjoyed a prolific run, scoring a career-high 30 goals for Manchester United. However, his form has dramatically declined this term, with the forward managing just eight goals and failing to score since before the March international break.
Despite this setback, Ten Hag remains optimistic about Rashford’s potential to bounce back. He sees this challenging period as a temporary phase in the striker’s career. “That is a career,” said Ten Hag. “It has ups and downs. But a down can also be fuel. That is what I see in training because he looks good. He is highly talented and he will be highly motivated. He has already had a big career. I am sure he will get over this and get even more goals.”
Rumors suggest that Manchester United is open to listening to offers for Rashford this summer, potentially paving the way for a transfer. Nevertheless, Ten Hag’s comments reflect a belief in Rashford’s ability to overcome his current struggles and return to his best.
Ten Hag’s focus now shifts to the upcoming FA Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley. Amidst this, questions about his own future at Manchester United have emerged. There are speculations that a heavy defeat in the final could lead to Ten Hag’s exit, with any loss potentially impacting United’s European qualification and thus reducing the compensation required to release him from his contract.
When asked about the possibility of this weekend marking his last game as United boss, Ten Hag declined to comment. “I have nothing to say on that,” he stated. “I am focusing on my job, which is first to win the game and then keep going on the project.”
The Dutchman emphasized his commitment to his role and the broader project at Manchester United, aiming to secure victory in the FA Cup final and continue building the team.
