Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim says Marcus Rashford is keen to make a comeback.
Rashford, who has missed United’s last three games, sparked speculation about his future at Old Trafford after he expressed a desire for a “new challenge” in an interview after spending two decades at the club .
However, Amorim has since made it clear that Rashford wants to play but will not be accepted until he meets the required training standards.
Amorim said during his press conference that the decision was his alone.
He said, “Yes, it’s my decision. He wants to play. He is trying. It’s my decision, my decision alone.
“(There is) no situation. When I feel like it’s the right moment, I’ll make a change. Until then, I will continue to think about what is best for the team.
“I’ve spoken to a lot of players individually during training, so I try to do things my way – and that’s the only way I know how.
💬 Ruben has a message for our supporters ahead of the Boxing Day trip to Wolves.#MUFC || #PL
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 24, 2024
“If I don’t do this, I will lose myself, and I won’t lose myself. I know what I’m doing.”
Despite Rashford’s comments in the interview and the attention they brought, Amorim dismissed the idea that the issue affected the team.
“No, I don’t think so,” he added. “Not for me and not for the other players, because everyone is there at training every day. You understand. That is the crucial point.
“I’m really focused and they know – my message is so clear – that everyone in Carrington knows what I’m talking about and what I want from Marcus and everyone else.
“So it’s not a distraction for us. Maybe it’s for the media, but that’s not my concern. For the media and for other people, I can’t control that.”
Asked about his conversations with Rashford and what he expects from the striker in training, Amorim replied: “Like any other player, the best he can be.”
“When you have great talent, great performance, great responsibility, great commitment, you push everyone forward in that moment. And some guys have a lot of responsibility here because they’ve been here a long time.”
“I talk to him every day, not about the interview, but about the performance.”
Amorim acknowledged the current challenges facing the club, describing this as “one of the lowest moments in our club.” That’s why we must face it and be strong in this moment. That’s what I want from every player on the team.”
As Manchester United prepare for their Boxing Day clash against Wolves, Amorim has left the door open for Rashford’s return but made no guarantees.
The striker remains sidelined unless Amorim decides he is ready to rejoin the squad.
