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Before the match commenced, Marcus Rashford was the center of attention.
However, by the time the final whistle blew, jubilant Manchester United fans had shifted their focus away from their former icon.
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Without him, the team appeared to thrive, a sentiment that new Red Devils manager Ruben Amorim strongly emphasized after the match.
Rashford’s abilities justified his importance — he should have been the center of attention and garnered all the focus.
Nonetheless, his diminishing work rate is causing the spotlight to fade rapidly, and he must navigate this situation carefully to ensure a future at United beyond the New Year.
Amorim sent a clear signal by entirely omitting both Rashford, 27, and the 20-year-old Alejandro Garnacho from the matchday squad.
On the morning of the match, they were ordered to train separately with Jonny Evans and Toby Collyer, while the rest of the team prepared for their visit to the Etihad.
Amorim has voiced his disappointment with their performances during training, games, and seemingly in off-pitch matters as well.
Rashford’s decline has been dramatic.
Once a source of inspiration for young fans eager to emulate him as a football star for his beloved club,
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His incredible journey from Withington to Buckingham Palace for an MBE recognizing his exceptional efforts to aid disadvantaged and hungry children should never be forgotten.
Just two seasons ago, he reached a career-high of 30 goals in a single season.
‘It doesn’t look good’ – Roy Keane indicates Marcus Rashford might face a transfer exit after being DROPPED for the City match
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During that period, it seemed like everything was within his reach… but the situation escalated far too rapidly.
The allure of fame, wealth, and the temptations of a Premier League lifestyle proved irresistible, and he dove into it wholeheartedly.
Once a reserved individual who maintained a low profile with his childhood sweetheart Lucia Loi, he began to revel in the lavish lifestyle.
Regrettably, that relationship with Loi has also suffered as a result.
Amorim could have easily justified their exclusion by citing reasons such as rotation, fatigue, or tactical changes — yet he decided against it, choosing instead to highlight their underwhelming performances.
Rashford’s form significantly deteriorated last season, dropping from an impressive 30 goals the previous year to just eight.
He not only lost his place in United’s starting lineup but also was excluded from the England squad for the summer Euros in Germany.
Former United manager Erik ten Hag had taken a protective stance regarding him, issuing warnings about his behavior both on and off the pitch.
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Initially, there was the episode when Rashford celebrated in the city following United’s 3-0 humiliation at home against Guardiola’s squad last October.
Ten Hag found that behavior to be “unacceptable.”
It was claimed to be a quiet family get-together for his birthday, according to his PR representative; however, the reality was quite different.
Then, on January 26, he was seen partying late into the night in Belfast, despite being scheduled for training that day ahead of a Sunday FA Cup match in Newport.
He returned on a private jet but called in sick.
When Ten Hag learned about the circumstances, he was furious.
The manager even considered relegating him to the reserves, but he was short on players at the time.
They barely spoke after that incident.
Man Utd player ratings vs Man City as sensational Amad Diallo turns derby on its head
AMAD DIALLO stunned Manchester City with a remarkable comeback.
The dynamic winger earned a penalty, converted by Bruno Fernandes, in the dying moments to level the score.
But the highlight was yet to come as Amad maneuvered past an incoming Ederson and skillfully slotted in a late winner from a challenging angle during injury time.
Here’s how SunSport’s Neil Custis rated the Man Utd players…
Andre Onana – 6
He lacks the commanding presence needed and, as shown midweek in Plzen, his distribution is a significant weakness for the opposition.
However, he wasn’t under heavy scrutiny in this match.
Lisandro Martinez – 7
Displayed much more composure under Amorim than previously when he seemed eager to live up to his moniker ‘The Butcher of Amsterdam’.
Delivered a crucial through ball for Amad’s winning goal.
Harry Maguire – 8
Held his own in a fierce contest with Erling Haaland, emerging victorious.
A wise choice to include the former captain in such a pivotal match. He appears to thrive in a central defensive role.
Matthijs de Ligt 78′ – 7
Produced a solid performance, looking more at ease alongside Maguire than with his other defensive partners.
Diogo Dalot – 5
Failed to challenge Gvardiol effectively, leading to City’s first goal. Contributed little offensively from his wing-back position.
Bruno Fernandes – 8
Missed an important opportunity set up by Hojlund, shooting wide.
But under pressure at the penalty spot, he remained calm, slotting home to equalize.
Manuel Ugarte – 7
Anchored in front of the backline effectively, neutralizing much of Phil Foden’s influence.
Noussair Mazraoui 78′ – 8
Proved to be the standout of the summer acquisitions, adapting to play as a right wing-back seamlessly, one of United’s best performers on the day.
Mason Mount 13′ – 6
Seemed visibly upset when he had to exit early due to injury. Lacks luck with injuries and hasn’t had a good run since joining.
Amad Diallo 90′ – 9
Achieved a career highlight with a thrilling derby-winning goal. His impressive movement allowed him to capitalize on Martinez’s pass, delicately evading Ederson and although his strike was somewhat scuffed, it found the target.
He almost scored earlier with a header that Ederson saved well.
Additionally, he showcased alertness by winning the penalty leading to their equalizer.
Rasmus Hojlund 78′ – 6
Made himself known primarily for a physical exchange with Walker and a minor fall when seeking a penalty.
He did provide a brilliant ball for Fernandes, which should’ve equalized.
Subs
Kobbie Mainoo 13′ – 6
Performed reliably, stepping into a deeper role post-Mount’s exit while Fernandes pushed forward.
Joshua Zrikzee 78′ – 6
Not an impact sub but efficiently retained possession during the final moments.
Antony 78′ – 6
Came off the bench to influence the game but struggled with a lack of confidence due to limited starts.
Leny Yoro 78′ – 6
Making gradual progress back to full fitness after an injury this summer.
Victor Lindelof 90′ – 6
Had little time to impact the match.
It takes a significant amount for the Red Devils fans to turn against one of their own — yet that is exactly what has occurred with Rashford.
Fans have noticed his reduced effort, slumped posture, and an alarming lack of dedication on the pitch.
His teammates have recognized it too, resulting in clashes during matches.
Amorim’s arrival from Sporting Lisbon last month raised optimism.
So why was Rashford courtside at an NBA game in New York the weekend before the new manager’s arrival, sporting a Louis Vuitton jacket and flashy grillz?
This may have been what Amorim was hinting at when he noted that players’ appearances matter.
With multiple withdrawals from the England squad during that period, anyone in a replica jersey had a chance at a call-up, yet Rashford was absent.
This highlights the extent to which he has fallen in the ranks with the Three Lions.
Rashford found the back of the net in the opening minutes of Amorim’s first match away at Ipswich.
He followed this with two goals in a 4-0 triumph over Everton.
However, he was benched for disappointments against Arsenal and Nottingham Forest.
Later, he was substituted after 56 minutes in an away fixture against Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League. Amorim has made his assessment.
The Portuguese has indicated that the player will be given another chance — but it will be his final opportunity.
And one day, Rashford may genuinely regret these choices . . .
