Amorim stands firm: no regrets on Rashford's fate

In England, Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has confirmed that Marcus Rashford was not included in the squad for the Carabao Cup quarter-final match against Tottenham Hotspur. This match, which took place on the evening of December 19, 2024, culminated in a disappointing 4-3 defeat for United, marking their exit from the tournament. Rashford, a key figure for the team, has not only been left out of this recent match, but he was also absent in the previous game against Manchester City. The forward has been vocal about seeking a new challenge away from the club after spending 20 years there, prompting speculation regarding his future. Amorim defended his decision to omit Rashford from the squad by stating it was based on selection and readiness, not discipline, emphasizing that he believes he did what was necessary for the team despite the mixed results that have marked his managerial tenure. In a pre-match press conference, Amorim characterized Rashford as a significant talent and expressed the idea that the team performs better with him included. Yet, given Rashford's recent comments and the manager's choice to prioritize other players, it raises questions about his long-term position within the squad. Amidst the recent defeats, the manager has been focusing on selecting players he feels can handle the demands of high-stakes games effectively. The loss against Spurs illustrates the ongoing challenges faced by United, particularly in defense and goalkeeping, as mistakes contributed to their elimination from the competition.