Marcus Rashford: What’s behind his poor form this season?
Marcus Rashford is one of the most talented and popular players in the Premier League, but his form this season has been far from impressive. The Manchester United forward has scored only two goals in 13 league games, and has been criticised by pundits and fans for his lacklustre performances. What are the reasons behind Rashford’s slump, and can he recover from it?
One possible factor is the high expectations that Rashford faces after signing a new contract with Manchester United in the summer. Rashford agreed to a five-year deal worth £300,000 per week, making him one of the highest-paid players in the league. However, this also means that Rashford has to justify his huge salary and prove his worth to the club and the fans. Rashford may have been affected by the pressure and the scrutiny that comes with his new contract, and may have lost some of his hunger and motivation.
Another possible factor is the competition and the rotation that Rashford faces in his position and role. Rashford has been deployed as a left winger, a right winger, and a centre forward at various times this season, depending on the formation and the availability of other players. This may have affected his confidence and rhythm, as he has to adapt to different demands and expectations in each role. Rashford may also be suffering from the comparison with his new team-mate Jérémy Doku, who has been sensational since joining Manchester United from Rennes in the summer. Doku has scored seven goals and provided six assists in 14 league games, and has outshone Rashford in almost every aspect of attacking play. Doku’s superior performance is evident in his ability to beat defenders, with a higher take-on success rate of 63.27% compared to Rashford’s 50%. Doku’s work rate is also more impressive, with more ball recoveries, fouls drawn, and a higher ground duel success rate .
A third possible factor is the injury and the fatigue that Rashford has been dealing with this season. Rashford missed the start of the season due to a shoulder surgery that he underwent in July, and only returned to action in late September. Rashford may not have fully recovered from his injury, and may still be feeling some pain and discomfort. Rashford may also be feeling the effects of playing too many games in the past few seasons, especially during the pandemic, when the schedule was more congested and the rest was more limited. Rashford may have lost some of his sharpness and his speed, which are essential for his style of play.
Rashford is not the first player to experience a dip in form, and he certainly has the potential and the quality to bounce back from it. Rashford is still only 26 years old, and has plenty of time to improve and develop his game. Rashford also has the support of his manager, Erik Ten Hag, who has defended him from the critics and backed him to regain his form. Rashford also has the character and the determination to overcome the challenges he faces, as he has shown in his remarkable journey from a humble background to a global superstar. Rashford has the talent and the personality to be one of the best players in the world, and he can prove it by rediscovering his form and his confidence. Rashford is a fighter, and he will not give up easily.