Ruben Amorim Defends Marcus Rashford Omission, Says He'd Rather Pick Goalkeeper Coach

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has defended his decision to omit Marcus Rashford from the squad, citing the player's lack of commitment and effort in training.

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has defended his decision to omit forward Marcus Rashford from the squad for Sunday's 1-0 win over Fulham. Amorim emphasized that he prioritizes players who demonstrate full commitment and effort, even if it means making tough decisions. Rashford has not featured for United since mid-December, after expressing his desire for a new challenge in his career.

Amorim reiterated his stance on player selection, stating that he expects nothing but the highest level of dedication from his players. “It's always the same reason,” Amorim told reporters when asked about Rashford's latest omission. “The reason is the training, the way I see what a footballer should do. In training, in life, and it's every day, every detail.”

🚨💣 Rúben Amorim on Rashford out: “If things don't change, I will NOT change”.

“I will put the GK coach Vital before I put a player who does NOT give the maximum every day”.

“I will NOT change in that department”. pic.twitter.com/KXS4uTFlsk

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 26, 2025

Amorim emphasized that his expectations apply to every player, and that he will not compromise on his standards. “So if things don't change, I will not change,” he said. “It's the same situation for every player. If you do the maximum, if you do the right things, we can use every player.” Amorim also highlighted the importance of having players who can make a positive impact on the game.

Amorim concluded by reiterating his commitment to his principles, even if it means making unconventional decisions. “You can see it today on the bench -- we miss a little bit of pace to go, to change the game, to move some pieces, but I prefer like that,” he said. ”I will put (goalkeeper coach Jorge) Vital before I put a player that does not give the maximum every day. I will not change in that.”

How will the boss be spending his birthday?

You guessed it 👊#MUFC || #FULMUN

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 26, 2025

Manchester United manager Amorim is set to celebrate his 40th birthday, but he jokingly claimed that his difficult first two months at the club have aged him prematurely. Speaking to the BBC, Amorim quipped, “It's not 40... I'm 50!” when asked if the Fulham win was the perfect birthday present. He added, “After two months at Manchester United it's 50.”

Despite Amorim's lighthearted remarks, Manchester United's performance against Fulham was far from convincing. The visitors were fortunate to emerge with three points, thanks to Lisandro Martinez's late deflected winner, which was their only shot on target in a poor contest. The victory marked only the fourth time Amorim has tasted league success since taking over from Erik ten Hag in November.

Amorim acknowledged that his team's performance was not impressive, stating, “You cannot see a great improvement in the team and that is a fact.” However, he emphasized the importance of winning, saying, “That feeling of winning and three points is really important for us... But to win helps us to improve.” As Manchester United continue to struggle in mid-table, Amorim will be hoping that his team can build on this narrow victory and start to show significant improvement.