Marcus Rashford’s reaction to coaching methods shocked former Manchester United coach Steve McClaren, who recently left Old Trafford to manage Jamaica. The 26-year-old forward, coming off a difficult 2023/24 season, had a brief but tense exchange with McClaren during a training session, reports say.Rashford, who had a stellar goal-scoring season the previous year, struggled to maintain his form, netting only eight goals in 43 appearances last season. This decline saw him dropped from England’s Euro 2024 squad, offering him a rare full pre-season to regroup for what could be a make-or-break season.
The United squad has undergone significant changes, including the departure of McClaren, who left to manage Jamaica after a second stint at Old Trafford. During his tenure, McClaren reportedly attempted to motivate Rashford during a five-a-side match at Carrington, telling him he was the one to score the winning goal. However, this seemingly supportive comment backfired, with Rashford reportedly feeling it added unnecessary pressure.
McClaren, surprised by Rashford’s reaction, had hoped to inspire the forward as he had done with other world-class strikers in the past. However, Rashford is now working closely with United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy, one of the most prolific strikers in the club’s history. Van Nistelrooy, who scored 150 goals in 219 appearances for United, has been brought in as part of Erik ten Hag’s new coaching staff, and has been regularly seen mentoring Rashford and other forwards.
With the new coaching setup, United are optimistic that Rashford will rediscover his form and thrive under Van Nistelrooy’s guidance. Ten Hag remains confident in his forward, stating, “He [Van Nistelrooy] scored so many goals, so definitely he will help the strikers in different areas and definitely on the mental side, bringing over his desire to win and score goals.”
This season will be crucial for Rashford as he aims to bounce back and reestablish himself as one of United’s key players under the watchful eye of Van Nistelrooy.The recent report about Marcus Rashford’s reaction to coaching methods has sparked some intrigue, especially regarding the forward’s interaction with former Manchester United coach Steve McClaren. During a training session at Carrington, McClaren, who has since left to manage Jamaica, reportedly tried to motivate Rashford by encouraging him to score the winning goal in a five-a-side match. However, Rashford’s response was not as expected; instead of feeling motivated, he reportedly found the comment added unnecessary pressure, leading to a brief but tense exchange between the two.
Rashford’s struggles last season, where he scored only eight goals in 43 appearances, contrasted sharply with his previous stellar goal-scoring form, which likely contributed to his reaction. His form also led to his exclusion from England’s Euro 2024 squad, giving him a rare full pre-season to work on regaining his confidence and fitness.
With McClaren now gone, Rashford is working under a new coaching setup that includes United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy. Van Nistelrooy, who was a prolific striker during his time at the club, has been mentoring Rashford and other forwards. Erik ten Hag believes that Van Nistelrooy’s experience and mentality will be invaluable for Rashford as he looks to bounce back.
This upcoming season is crucial for Rashford as he seeks to rediscover his form and reestablish himself as a key player for Manchester United under the guidance of Van Nistelrooy.
