Manager hints at transfer doubts while emphasizing training standards and team improvement
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim did not hold back when addressing Marcus Rashford’s continued absence from the squad following United’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday.
Lisandro Martinez’s fortunate 78th-minute goal secured a much-needed win for the Red Devils, marking their third away victory of the season. However, the game was overshadowed by questions surrounding Rashford, who has not featured in a Premier League matchday squad since United’s 3-2 home loss to Nottingham Forest on December 7.
Speaking to reporters, Amorim was blunt about the reasons behind Rashford’s exclusion, suggesting it stemmed from his lack of commitment in training.
“It’s always the same reason,” Amorim stated. “The reason is the training, the way I see what a footballer should do in training and in life. It’s every day, every detail. If things don’t change, I will not change.”
When asked if Rashford would still be at United after the transfer window closes on February 4, Amorim doubled down, saying he would rather select 63-year-old goalkeeping coach Jorge Vital than a player who doesn’t meet his expectations.
“If you do the maximum, if you do the right things, we can use every player,” Amorim explained. “But I prefer [it] like that. I will put Vital before I put a player that doesn’t give the maximum every day. That will not change.”
United’s Struggles Highlighted Despite Victory
While the victory against Fulham offered three crucial points, Amorim admitted his side still has significant areas to improve, particularly in attack.
“We tried to control the game, tried to play our game, but we need to improve a lot,” Amorim told TNT Sports. “This time, we held the result and closed the game – it’s really important to win now.”
Amorim acknowledged the team’s lack of creativity in the final third, adding, “We lack some pace and power in front. We need to create more chances, take the ball to the last third, and work on these details. But winning helps us a lot to improve.”
Transfer Window Caution
With just a week left before the transfer window closes, Amorim stressed the importance of caution in the market.
“We have to follow the rules. We’ve made mistakes in the past, and we cannot do it now,” he said. “Let’s focus on improving the team and the players we already have.”
Praise for Young Talent
Amid the focus on Rashford and United’s struggles, Amorim highlighted the contributions of young midfielder Toby Collyer, who made a crucial impact after coming on as a late substitute. Collyer cleared a powerful header from Fulham’s Joachim Andersen off the line in the 89th minute, preserving United’s lead.
Lisandro Martinez, the match-winner, praised Collyer’s efforts, calling him “a big example for the younger generation.”
Collyer, reflecting on the experience, said, “It’s a tough environment, and that makes you better as a player and your character. I’m looking to improve every day and help the team as much as I can.”
As United prepare for their next fixture, questions around Rashford’s future and Amorim’s strict approach to squad discipline remain at the forefront of discussions.
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