Ralf Rangnick is optimistic that Marcus Rashford can find form in Manchester United’s next few games, but he emphasizes that it is up to the player to break out of his long-term slump.
Despite the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo, Edinson Cavani, Anthony Martial, and Mason Greenwood, Rashford was selected on the bench for the 1-1 draw with Leicester, with Rangnick starting the same front six as against Manchester City five weeks earlier.
Rangnick criticised Anthony Elanga’s offside position for a stoppage-time chance as Rashford was shaping up to shoot inside the penalty area when Rashford came on in the 56th minute for Scott McTominay, who had just been yellow-carded for a high push on James Maddison.
Rashford has five goals this season, but only one of them has come in a starting role. The 24-year-old was left out of England’s March friendly triumphs over Switzerland and Ivory Coast, and it has been revealed that he is evaluating his options following the derby snub last month.
Rangnick stated, “It was evident to me that we would play Cristiano up front and with the three central midfielders.” “But then came the news that Cristiano isn’t feeling well and will most likely miss the game.”
“Then the question became, what are we going to do?” Do we play Marcus as a central striker and one of our central midfielders on the bench, or do we play Bruno as a false nine and Paul on the bench?
“I don’t think it affected the rhythm of the game in the first half, but when we realized we needed a goal after 55 minutes, we brought Marcus on to replace Scotty.” I wouldn’t have taken him off if he didn’t have a yellow card. With a yellow card, though, I believe it was the correct decision to remove him.
“It’s no secret that Marcus isn’t having the best of times right now; it’s all about rhythm and confidence, certainly.” Again, it is our responsibility to assist him in regaining his confidence, which is why I decided to bring him on board.
“Obviously, he has to [raise] himself in the end, but the only thing we can do is communicate with him on a regular basis and tell him what we expect of him and what he should do.” He is responsible for the rest.
“There have been several examples this season of players, some of whom are still with us and others who are no longer with us, who have demonstrated that it is possible to achieve a level of confidence in only a few weeks that allows you to perform like a different player.” We all know Marcus can play better, but he must, in the end, take the necessary steps.”
