Rúben Amorim delivered a brutally honest response when asked about Marcus Rashford’s absence during Manchester United’s disappointing 2-0 defeat against Wolves at Molineux.

The 39-year-old manager saw his side put in another poor performance, leaving United in 14th place in the Premier League, just seven points clear of the relegation zone. The match was marred by captain Bruno Fernandes receiving a red card for a second bookable offense just 47 minutes in. Wolves capitalized with a Matheus Cunha corner goal in the 58th minute, and Hwang Hee-chan sealed the victory with a second goal in the 99th minute.

While Amorim expressed his dissatisfaction with the team’s overall display, it was his comments on Rashford, 27, that captured the most attention.

Rashford was once again absent from the squad, following his recent remarks about being “ready for a new challenge and the next steps” in an interview with Henry Winter on December 17. Speaking to Prime Video, Amorim offered a blunt explanation for the forward’s continued omission:

“It’s always the same reason. We have to be the same professionals… the same guys, winning or losing. Losing, I have to be stronger. I will continue with my idea until the end.”

When pressed further on whether Rashford had been showing any improvement in training, Amorim tersely replied, “If he’s not here, you can make up your mind.”

Rashford has now missed United’s last four fixtures, including matches against Manchester City, Tottenham, Bournemouth, and Wolves. His exclusion comes amid growing speculation about a potential transfer, with PSG and Saudi Arabian clubs emerging as favorites to secure his signature.

Fan Reactions

Amorim’s remarks sparked mixed reactions from fans on social media. Some defended Rashford, while others criticized his recent form and questioned his impact on the team:

• One fan said: “He will not win a game until he brings back Rashford, the most important player at Man United in the last 4 years.”
• Another asked: “Could this poor performance have something to do with Rashford’s absence??”
• A third fan argued: “Rashford must go! As soon as POSSIBLE.”
• Others were less sympathetic, with one stating: “Rashford has scored like 10 goals in the past 2 years. Why do people think he would have a positive impact on United?”
• Another added: “They should stop asking him about Rashford.”

What’s Next for United?

United will next host Newcastle United at Old Trafford on December 30 before traveling to Anfield to face Liverpool on January 5. As the January transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on the ongoing Rashford saga and how it impacts the club’s performance during this turbulent period.