Amorim says Rashford is keen to get the Red Devils back on track

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim says Marcus Rashford is desperate for a comeback.

Rashford, who has missed United’s last three games, sparked speculation over his future at Old Trafford after an interview in which he expressed a desire for a “new challenge” after two decades at the club.

However, Amorim has since clarified that Rashford wants to play but will not be included until he meets the required training standards.

Amorim said during his press conference that the decision rests exclusively with him.

He said: “Yeah, it’s my decision. He wants to play. He’s trying. It’s my decision, just my decision.

“(There is) no situation. When I feel the time is right, I will change something. Until then I will continue to think about what is best for the team.

“I spoke to a lot of players individually during training so I’m trying to do things my way, and it’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 be lost and I will not be lost. I know what I’m doing.”

Despite Rashford’s comments in the interview and the attention it has garnered, Amorim dismissed the idea that the issue is affecting the team.

“No, I don’t think so,” he added. “Neither for me nor for the other players, because everyone is there every day during training. They understand This is the key point.

“I’m very focused and they know, I’m very clear about my message, everyone at 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 is for the media, but that’s not my concern. For the media and for the rest of the people, that’s something I can’t control.”

Asked about his discussions with Rashford and what he expects from the striker in training, Amorim replied: “Like any other player, the best he can be.

“If you have great talents, great performance, great responsibility, great commitment, it drives everybody right now. And some guys have a great 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 and described it as “one of our club’s lowest moments. So we have to face it and be strong in this moment. That’s what I want for every player in the team.”

As Manchester United prepare for their Boxing Day clash against Wolves, Amorim has left the door open to Rashford’s return but offered no guarantees.

The forward remains sidelined unless Amorim decides he is ready to rejoin the squad.