Manchester United star feels ‘bullied’ by Red Devils legends and Premier League pundits: Reports
Manchester United star Marcus Rashford is overwhelmed by the criticism being hurled at him for his recent performances, according to reports.
After an excellent campaign in the 2022-23 season that saw the England international rack up 30 goals across competitions, Rashford suffered a massive decline in form.
The 26-year-old managed just eight goals in 43 games for Manchester United last season. Rashford's displays were heavily criticized by fans and pundits, including the likes of Manchester United legends Gary Neville and Roy Keane.
A source who's close to the winger has now revealed how he's been dealing with his critics and how it's affected his form. (via Metro):
"When someone else misplaces a pass it does not get mentioned, but when it is Marcus it’s different. Very different. The criticism coming his way is an onslaught. It is bullying. Supporters believe what senior ex-players say, which only makes it worse."
"With these ex-players unable to contain themselves when he does the slightest thing wrong, it only makes things harder for him."
"The club have spent £100million on central strikers and Marcus is back out wide, as a facilitator. And he is doing his job in that regard. It isn’t his fault the chances aren’t being put away."
Marcus Rashford has started all three of United's Premier League fixtures so far. The Englishman is yet to register a goal contribution for the Red Devils this term.
Manchester United legend urges Marcus Rashford to 'get out of that slump'
Dwight Yorke believes Marcus Rashford has to get himself out of this slump and get back to his best form. The Manchester United legend has also questioned whether the England international is in the right state of mind.
He said:
"You have to find out where the individual is at, what is going through his head, what is his thought process in his everyday life. At the end of the day, we all have issues, we all have tough times in our lives."
Rashford was left out of the England squad for the 2024 European Championships by former manager Gareth Southgate after his underwhelming form in the 2022-23 campaign.
Yorke expects the forward to bounce back from this but insists that Rashford is the only one who can help himself. He added:
"I am sure that being left out of the England set-up last year, you expect him to come back with a little bit of fire in his belly and kick on after a poor season by his standards. Marcus Rashford is the only person who can get himself out of that slump."
Manchester United will next face Southampton on Saturday (14 September).