Manchester United striker Marcus Rashford has revealed he is ready to walk away from the Manchester derby after being left out by manager Ruben Amory.
Rashford, along with team-mate Alejandro Garnacho, was left out of United's squad for Sunday's game against Manchester City, with Amorim making it clear he expects his players to meet the criteria.
The England international has faced criticism over his performances and attitude over the past 18 months, a stark contrast to his impressive 30-goal campaign during the 2022-23 season.
Amory's bold call to leave out Rashford and Ganache came from behind as United beat their rivals 2-1.
As a result of this decision, there are reports that Rashford could leave the club in 2025, and the possibility of a loan move is also being discussed.
In an interview with journalist Henry Winter, Rashford admitted he was “ready for a new challenge”.
“For me personally, I think I'm ready for new challenges and next steps.
🚨 Marcus Rashford said: “For me, I'm ready for new challenges and next steps.” @henrywinter.
“There was no hard feeling when I left. You will not give me negative comments about Manchester United.”
“That's me. I'll always be red.” pic.twitter.com/KKtuXjohMJ
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 17 2024
“There was no hard feeling when I left. You will not give me a negative comment about Manchester United. That's just me.
“Knowing that the situation is already bad, it will not get worse. I've seen how other players left back then and I don't want to be that person. When I leave, I will make a statement and it will come out of me.”
When asked if he would always be a “red”, Rashford reaffirmed his loyalty: “Yes. 100%. 100%.”
Reflecting on his exit from the derby, Rashford admitted it was a tough pill to swallow.
“It was disappointing to leave the derby,” he admitted. “But it happened; We won the game, so let's move on. It's frustrating, but I'm also someone who can deal with adversity as I get older. What should I do about it? I sat there and cried. Or do the best you can next time.”
Despite his recent struggles, Rashford remains confident in his ability to adapt to Amorim's system, noting that while he can play in a number of positions, certain roles come more naturally to him.
Marcus Rashford is ready for a new challenge and has been asked if he could leave Manchester United. pic.twitter.com/HFHtr9Ibht
– Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt). December 17 2024
“I have the ability to play all three positions. Some positions are more natural to me; Some positions require more training and a little more tactical (work). The left side is the best for me,” he explained.
“The left 10 still suits me but you have to adapt your game. The biggest skill is adaptability. People can't see it but eventually they will see I've played in many different positions under all managers.
“I'm halfway through my career. I didn't expect to reach my climax. It's been nine years in the Premier League so far and it's taught me a lot. This has helped me grow as a player and as a person.
“So 9 years ago, I have no regrets. Take what happens every day and sometimes bad things happen and sometimes good things happen, so there are no regrets. I try and keep it balanced. 100% (the best is yet to come). That's my spirit.”