At 26, Rashford has had a slow start to the new season, following a disappointing 2023/24 campaign in which he managed just eight goals across all competitions. This was a stark contrast to his career-best 30 goals the season before.
His dip in form saw him left out of England’s squad for Euro 2024, where Gareth Southgate’s side finished as runners-up to Spain.
United fans had hoped that a summer break would help Rashford regain his form, but he has yet to score in the first three matches of the Premier League season.
The forward has faced mounting criticism from ex-United players, including Gary Neville and Roy Keane. However, a source close to Rashford believes he’s being unfairly singled out compared to his teammates.
“When someone else makes a mistake, it’s not mentioned, but when Marcus does, it’s a different story,” the source told *The i*. “The criticism he’s facing feels like an onslaught, it’s bullying. Fans listen to what these senior ex-players say, and it only makes things worse.”
The source also pointed out that Rashford has been playing out wide to accommodate United’s £100 million investment in central strikers, adding that he’s fulfilling his role but can’t control the team’s inability to finish chances.
This added scrutiny on Rashford presents an unwanted distraction for United manager Erik ten Hag, as the team prepares to face Southampton.
With United sitting 14th in the Premier League after losing two of their first three games — including a 3-0 loss to rivals Liverpool — Ten Hag will be hoping Rashford can break his goalless streak against a struggling Saints side.