Rashford’s Absence at Newport: More Than Just Illness
Manchester United fans were left puzzled when star forward Marcus Rashford missed Sunday’s FA Cup clash against Newport County. Initially reported as illness, the truth emerged Monday when the club confirmed it was actually an “internal disciplinary matter.”
Jw7 sources reveal this marks the second time in just over a year that manager Erik ten Hag has disciplined the England international. The 26-year-old reportedly attended social events in Belfast last week before missing training, prompting Ten Hag’s decisive action.
Ten Hag’s Culture Revolution at Old Trafford
Since arriving in 2022, the Dutch manager has been vocal about changing what he called a “no good culture” at the club. This latest incident follows:
- Jadon Sancho’s loan departure after falling out with Ten Hag
- Rashford‘s previous disciplinary issues (more below)
- Several other instances of players being held accountable
“Marcus has taken responsibility for his actions,” read United’s statement. “This has been dealt with as an internal disciplinary matter, which is now closed.”
Rashford’s Rocky Discipline Record
Previous Incidents Under Ten Hag
December 2022: Dropped for arriving late to a team meeting before Wolves match (still came off bench to score winner)
October 2023: Apologized for hosting birthday party hours after 3-0 derby loss to Manchester City
Concerning Performance Dip
While off-field issues grab headlines, Rashford‘s on-field production has plummeted:
- Just 4 goals in 26 appearances this season
- Compared to 30 goals in 2022-23 campaign
- Only 1 Premier League goal since September
Immediate Implications for Wolves Match
The silver lining? Rashford will be available for Thursday’s crucial Premier League trip to Molineux. With Anthony Martial injured and no January striker signings due to FFP restrictions, Ten Hag needs his £300k-per-week forward firing.
“Of course Rashford can play as a striker,” Ten Hag told Jw7 last week. “We have some alternatives but with Anthony out for months, it’s a clear gap in our squad.”
Expert Analysis: What This Means Long-Term
We spoke to former Premier League defender turned Jw7 pundit Jamie Carragher:
“Ten Hag is drawing a line in the sand. He’s shown with Sancho and now Rashford that no player is bigger than the club. But United fans will worry – when your most talented attacker needs this many wake-up calls, something’s not right psychologically.”
With United fighting for top four and FA Cup glory, Rashford’s response could define their season. Will this be the wake-up call he needs? Or another chapter in United’s ongoing discipline saga?
Stay tuned to Jw7 for all the latest Manchester United updates and in-depth tactical analysis.
