Marcus Rashford has spoken openly about the challenges he faced at Manchester United, suggesting the club’s instability meant it was difficult for him to maintain consistent performances. The 27-year-old is currently on loan at Barcelona, with the Spanish club having the option to sign him on a permanent transfer for just £30 million.
The forward has played under an astonishing eight different managers since Louis van Gaal gave him his first-team debut, including temporary stints with Michael Carrick, Ralf Rangnick and Ruud van Nistelrooy. He only managed to make more than 100 appearances under three managers: Erik ten Hag, Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Rashford had a brief stint with Ruben Amorim last season, making just six appearances before being loaned to Aston Villa. After spending several months under the tutelage of manager Unai Emery, he is now working alongside Hansi Flick at Barcelona.
Adding to his list of coaches, Thomas Tuchel is currently coaching him in the England national team as Gareth Southgate’s replacement. Tuchel has previously stressed that Rashford needs to achieve consistency if he wants to be recognized as a world-class player.
Rashford, currently at Barcelona, responded to these comments in an interview with ITV, saying: “Certainly consistency is a big part of it. I feel like I’ve been in an inconsistent environment for a very long time, so it’s even harder to be consistent.”
“But I completely agree. I think consistency is what you need to bring to your game, and that’s what I strive for. I want to be at my best as often as possible, not just once in a while.”
“When people talk about consistency, in order to be consistent in anything, not just sports, you need consistent variables in your life and the way you train. There have been so many changes in my career so far.
“But I have to move forward. That’s definitely one thing I want to fix and improve to be at my best more often. When I’m at my best, I really enjoy everything about the sport.”
Following Rashford’s departure, United do not look more stable under Amorim’s guidance. The Red Devils are languishing in 10th place, having looked unconvincing in many games having suffered a humiliating defeat to Grimsby Town in the Carabao Cup earlier this season.
A win against Sunderland before the international break eased some concerns. United’s next challenge, however, will see them travel to Anfield to face formidable rivals and reigning Premier League champions Liverpool on Sunday.
