By Okafor Joseph Afam – January 27, 2035

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has shed light on why Marcus Rashford remains sidelined, delivering a scathing assessment of the forward’s commitment and attitude. Rashford, absent from United’s Premier League squad for their 1-0 victory over Fulham on Sunday, has not featured for the club since December 12.

Speaking after the match, Amorim reiterated that the 27-year-old’s exclusion stems from his poor performances in training and lack of effort. The Portuguese tactician emphasized that he values dedication and team spirit above individual talent, even hinting he would prioritize his goalkeeper coach, Jorge Vital, over a player who fails to meet expectations.

“It is the same situation. If things don’t change, I will not change. I will put Jorge Vital before I put a player who does not give the maximum every day,” Amorim declared to reporters.

Rashford, once a talismanic figure for the Red Devils, has seen his future at Old Trafford cast into doubt. Both Barcelona and Juventus have reportedly expressed interest in securing the England international’s services. However, his hefty £315,000-a-week wages remain a significant stumbling block for any potential move, even a loan.

Rumors suggest that Rashford is willing to take a pay cut to join Barcelona, but the Spanish giants must address their own financial constraints before making an offer.

Meanwhile, Amorim reflected on United’s hard-fought win at Craven Cottage, which came courtesy of a late deflected goal from Lisandro Martinez. Although critical of his side’s overall performance, the coach stressed the importance of earning three points.

“That feeling of winning and three points is really important for us,” Amorim said in his post-match interview with BBC Sport. “You cannot see a great improvement in the team yet, and that is a fact. But to win helps us to improve. Today wasn’t the best match, but we managed to win.”

Amorim also expressed his desire to implement a new playing style at the club, admitting he sometimes feels frustrated with the process.

“We want to play a different style, and we are going to play a different style in the future. The important thing is I have a clear idea of what I want to do,” he added.

In a separate conversation with TNT Sports, Amorim praised the traveling United fans, acknowledging their unwavering support: “They deserve it. It is amazing, and it is not normal. It is a big privilege to win for this club and give them victories. Today, we did it for them.”

Looking ahead, Manchester United will close their Europa League league-phase campaign against FCSB on Thursday night before hosting Crystal Palace in the Premier League next Sunday. Rashford’s involvement in these fixtures, however, remains highly unlikely unless significant changes occur in his attitude and performances.

With time running out in the January transfer window, the coming days could determine whether Rashford stays to fight for his place or embarks on a fresh chapter elsewhere.