Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has insisted that Marcus Rashford must change his attitude if he hopes to return to the first team, as the forward faces his 12th consecutive match out of the squad.
The 27-year-old will remain sidelined for United’s Europa League clash with Steaua Bucharest on Thursday, with his future at Old Trafford increasingly uncertain.
Amorim made it clear he harbours no personal grievance against the England international but remains firm on his position regarding the player’s exclusion.
“Our team should be so much better with Rashford, but Rashford has to change,” Amorim said.
Marcus Rashford has failed to win round Ruben Amorim
PA
The United boss emphasised his willingness to welcome the forward back into the fold, provided he meets the required standards.
“If he changes, we would more than welcome a talent like Rashford – and we need him,” Amorim stated.
The manager stressed that his decision was based purely on maintaining team standards rather than any personal conflict.
“You try to make it something personal, but it’s not personal. It’s nothing against Marcus. I just have to make the same rules for everybody,” he added.
Amorim acknowledged the team’s pressing need for Rashford’s attacking qualities in the final third.
Marcus Rashford could leave United in January Reuters
“We need goals, we need one against one, we need a threat in the final third,” the United manager explained.
The Portuguese coach emphasised that while the team would benefit from Rashford’s return, it would only happen when the player shows sufficient determination.
“We are waiting for Marcus if he wants it really, really bad. That’s the only thing,” he said.
Amorim concluded by reiterating his unwavering position on the matter.
“We have to set some standards, that’s all,” the United manager said.
His message left no room for doubt about the situation, whilst acknowledging Rashford’s importance to the squad.
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Ruben Amorim wants Marcus Rashford to change
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“We are a better team with Marcus Rashford, that is clear. He is a big talent,’ Amorim said.
“But until the right moment I will not change my mind.”