As the 2021-22 English football season drew to a close, many were wondering whether Marcus Rashford would ever rediscover the flair that made him such an exciting prospect when he burst onto the scene back in 2016.
A meager return of just five goals in 35 appearances meant it was the first time he had failed to hit double figures in a full campaign. Rashford’s career was at risk of petering out completely.
Fast forward less than a year, and the Englishman seems to be back to his very best. Revitalized under the management of Erik ten Hag, Rashford has been a striker reborn. He already has 22 goals to his name this season, as well as a strong showing for England at the World Cup, and he seems to have found the confidence that has been so sorely lacking in recent times.
Rashford’s form has helped Manchester United improve significantly this season, and for the first time in several years there is cause for optimism at the club. Their standing in the football betting odds has improved, and a return to the Champions League should be on the cards if they can maintain their form for the rest of the campaign.
Ten Hag has done a fine job since arriving from Ajax and weathering the early storm that United endured at the beginning of the season. But if you asked any fan of the club what the biggest positive from this campaign has been so far, they’ll tell you that it’s the resurgence of Rashford.
It’s not only the goal return that has improved markedly, but Rashford’s overall contribution in games is reminiscent of the insouciant performances he gave when he made such an impact as a youngster. He looks like he is once again relishing the challenge of taking on defenders and beating them one-on-one, and he’s finding the target with much greater consistency.
It’s hard to pinpoint exactly why Rashford’s form stuttered over the last few seasons. During the pandemic he dedicated a lot of time to philanthropic and social causes, and many have suggested that those things distracted him slightly.
There is also the small matter of the constant turmoil that has enveloped Manchester United since the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson back in 2013. Moments where there is genuine harmony at the club have been few and far between, and it will always be difficult for a player to produce their best form during such turbulent times.
Now though, there is a real sense that Erik ten Hag is building an exciting foundation for the club, and with rumors of an impending takeover growing stronger by the day, it might not be long before Manchester United are back where they should be. For a player like Rashford, that must be hugely motivating. No wonder he’s playing with more freedom and flair than before.
It will be interesting to see where Rashford’s career goes from here. It’s easy to forget he is still only 25 years of age, with many years still ahead of him. Right now, the future has never looked brighter.
