This marks a rare instance of the Glazer family directly commenting on team affairs.
Glazer stated, “I now fully understand what Erik ten Hag and Rúben Amorim have been complaining about. Initially, I didn’t take their concerns seriously because he was one of my favorites at the club. However, after witnessing it firsthand, I’ve decided to take decisive action by removing the weak link before making further changes.”
While Glazer did not specify the individual in question, sources within the club suggest that the remarks pertain to forward Marcus Rashford. Rashford, once a standout performer and academy graduate, has faced a series of challenges both on and off the pitch in recent seasons.
In July 2023, Rashford signed a lucrative contract extension, committing to the club until 2028 with a reported weekly wage of £325,000. Despite this, his form has been inconsistent, and disciplinary issues have arisen. Notably, in January 2024, Rashford missed an FA Cup match against Newport County due to illness, which the club addressed as an internal disciplinary matter. Additionally, he was previously benched by then-manager Erik ten Hag in November 2023 for hosting a birthday party following a defeat to Manchester City.
The managerial transition from Ten Hag to Rúben Amorim in November 2024 did not alleviate the situation. Amorim, known for his strict disciplinary approach, excluded Rashford from the squad for a crucial match against Manchester City in December 2024. When questioned, Amorim emphasized the importance of evaluating various aspects, including training performance and team engagement, stating, “We have to put the standards really high.”
Rashford’s own statements have added to the speculation. In December 2024, he expressed a desire for a “new challenge,” indicating a potential departure from the club he has been with since his youth. This sentiment, combined with his omission from multiple matchday squads, has fueled discussions about his future at Old Trafford.
The Glazer family’s decision to intervene underscores the gravity of the situation. Avram Glazer’s acknowledgment of managerial concerns and his commitment to addressing the “weak link” suggest impending changes within the squad. This move aims to realign the team’s dynamics and restore its competitive edge.
As Manchester United navigates this transitional phase, the focus will be on how these internal decisions impact on-field performances and the club’s standing in domestic and international competitions.
