Manchester United has come under significant scrutiny for their choice to grant Marcus Rashford a lucrative new contract just under two years prior to his transfer to Aston Villa. The 27-year-old forward had recently enjoyed a career-best season in 2022/23 under Erik ten Hag, which led to a £300,000-a-week contract extension lasting until 2028.
Nevertheless, he was unable to replicate his previous success, scoring only eight goals last season after netting 30 across all competitions the year before, and managing just seven goals prior to his February move to Villa. His 12-match absence from the pitch before departing was a telling sign of a declining relationship with the club he had represented for nine years. It is widely anticipated that he will leave Old Trafford on a permanent basis this summer, with Villa holding a £40 million option to purchase should he choose to stay in the Midlands.
Rashford has made a promising start under Unai Emery, quickly establishing a productive partnership with fellow loanee Marco Asensio.
The criticism directed at United has intensified, particularly as observers highlight Ruben Amorim’s struggling attack while another player flourishes elsewhere shortly after his departure.
However, Rashford’s early achievements at Villa Park validate Manchester United’s faith in his abilities when they committed to a new five-year contract in 2023, a decision that has faced considerable backlash.
Furthermore, the England international has already endeared himself to his new teammates, receiving high praise from Villa captain John McGinn.
“I’ve been impressed. They came with huge reputations, but they’ve fitted in nicely,” McGinn explained ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League last-16 first leg against Club Brugge.
“They’re good guys who are hungry to succeed, and they’ve worked hard, which is all you want as a team-mate. There are no big egos – well, if there are, we’ve not seen them yet!
“But they’ve fitted in well. I’m hoping one falls to Marcus’ feet tomorrow to get his first goal. They are two brilliant players, and we are delighted they are here.”
Rashford has not found the back of the net in his initial six appearances for Villa; however, he has contributed three assists, all of which have been for goals scored by Asensio.
His role will be vital for Emery’s team as they aim to enhance their Champions League chances, particularly before a challenging match against Brugge, who secured a 1-0 victory in their previous league encounter.
Additionally, Villa needs to improve their performance away from home, having suffered defeats in eight of their last ten away matches, and McGinn is focused on making progress.
The Scotsman added: “We are not ignoring the away record. We’ve had good results this season, but we’ve been far too easy to play against away from home, too easy to score against.
“We have the chance to change it now. We need to win more duels, be stronger in the tackle. We need to start with a clean sheet and try to nick a goal from a counter-attack.”