Ryan Giggs has shockingly admitted that he can’t envision a future for Marcus Rashford at Manchester United, following the forward’s loan move to Aston Villa. Having been shown the door by Ruben Amorim and subsequently impressing under Unai Emery at Villa, Rashford’s performances even earned him a spot in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad.
With Villa securing first dibs on any permanent transfer and rumours swirling about interest from Barcelona, it seems Rashford’s time at Old Trafford could be up.
Despite the forward’s current success since leaving on loan, United icon Giggs lamented the situation while appearing on the “Rio Ferdinand Presents” podcast. The former United star fondly recalled handing Rashford his debut back in 2016 when he was Louis van Gaal’s assistant manager.
Yet, speaking of Rashford’s prospects of returning to United, Giggs stated bluntly on the podcast: “No. I don’t think he looked happy at United.”
He added, “I think he looks happier now. I just don’t. Which is a shame because obviously I’d seen him as a part of the staff when we’d given him his debut.”
Giggs delivered a no-nonsense message to Rashford, insisting the Manchester United forward needs to up his game. Speaking about Rashford’s performance, the former United stalwart didn’t mince words: “First of all, he’s got to work harder.”
He continued with a stern critique, “I talked about no matter what position on the pitch you are, you sprint back as quick as you sprint forward, and aesthetically, it didn’t look great. Especially if the team ain’t doing well.”
Giggs highlighted the importance of effort over skill, adding: “Because fans will forgive you for missing a chance. They won’t forgive you for not working hard enough. They just won’t. Because they can do that. They can sprint. Everyone can.
“But then also, what I talked about, you know that he can play up there. He’s done it everywhere. He’s done it on the biggest stage. It’s hard from looking outside to in. But it looked like he’s not enjoying it.
“And you’ve got to enjoy it. Especially flare players, attacking players. Because that’s your best moments. When your confidence is high, you’re trying things. Don’t always come off. But play instinctively and play like you did when you were younger. Freedom.”
Despite the criticism, Rashford’s stats speak for themselves; he has been involved in 10 goals during his time at Villa, scoring four and setting up six in just 17 appearances, including a crucial assist in Villa’s tight Champions League quarter-final second-leg defeat to PSG, where his efforts were only thwarted by the formidable Gianluigi Donnarumma.
His season could yet conclude with a trophy, as Villa have reached the FA Cup semi-final and are set to take on Crystal Palace at Wembley on Saturday.
He will also be a key figure in the final stages of the Premier League, where Villa are among five teams vying for Champions League qualification.
