Ruud van Nistelrooy has sent warning to Marcus Rashford over Man Utd exit with telling Real Madrid comment
Marcus Rashford has expressed an interest in seeking a new challenge away from Manchester United.
Ruud van Nistelrooy, who previously worked with Rashford as Erik ten Hag’s assistant and later as interim manager, has already issued a cautionary message to the 27-year-old regarding a potential departure from the club.
Rashford, alongside Alejandro Garnacho, was left out of Manchester United’s squad for their 2-1 derby win over Manchester City. Despite training “really well,” it appears that Ruben Amorim was dissatisfied with aspects of their preparation for the match.
Although United’s manager has indicated that there is now a “clean slate” for all players, Rashford shocked fans with an interview on Tuesday night in which he hinted at leaving the club. When asked by renowned journalist Henry Winter whether he would stay or leave, Rashford responded, “For me, personally, I think I’m ready for a new challenge and the next steps.”
Rashford, who described being left out of the derby as “disheartening,” emphasized that there would be “no hard feelings” toward the club he has been with since the age of seven. He added, “You’re not going to have any negative comments from me about Manchester United.”
Reports suggest that United might entertain offers around £40 million for the England international, with several clubs already being linked with a move for Rashford.
Van Nistelrooy, who left United in 2006 after scoring 150 goals in 219 appearances, has warned Rashford about leaving the club. Reflecting on his own move to Real Madrid, he said, “I know what it’s like when you’ve left – it’s gone, it doesn’t come back anymore. I was lucky to play for Real Madrid after United. Where can you go after United? Probably Madrid, but anything else isn’t the same. Playing for those types of clubs is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a player.”
Despite the speculation surrounding Rashford’s future, Amorim believes the forward still has a vital role to play at the club. In a press conference, Amorim stated, “We are better with Marcus Rashford, that’s simple, and we will try different things to push him to the best levels he has shown in the past. This kind of club needs big talent, and he’s a big talent. He just needs to perform at the highest level. I just want to help Marcus. We have a new challenge, the biggest in football, and I hope all my players are ready.”
Rashford has scored 138 goals in 425 appearances for United since making his debut at the age of 18 in 2016.
