Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has expressed that Marcus Rashford is still far from returning to the club’s matchday squad. The England international has now missed 11 consecutive games, including United’s narrow 1-0 victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday.

Rashford’s last appearance for Manchester United came more than six weeks ago, in the Europa League clash against Viktoria Plzen on December 12th. Following that match, the striker hinted at seeking a “new challenge” away from Old Trafford, fueling speculation about his future at the club.

The January transfer window presents an opportunity for Rashford to move on, but so far, no deal has materialized. Despite United’s ongoing struggles in front of goal, Amorim remains firm in his stance regarding the player.

When questioned about Rashford’s continued absence after the Fulham game, Amorim remarked, “It’s the same, it’s always the same reason. The reason lies in the training, in how I view what footballers should do every day—every detail matters.”

Amorim elaborated on his philosophy, stating, “If things don’t change, I won’t change. The same applies to every player. If you give your maximum effort and do the right things consistently, you’ll get your chance. But as of now, I’m not seeing that.”

The manager admitted that the team lacked pace and attacking dynamism on the bench, which could have helped alter the game against Fulham. However, he remains steadfast in his principles. “I’d rather put Vital [United’s goalkeeping coach] on the pitch before I field a player who isn’t giving their all every day. My standards won’t change in that regard,” he emphasized.

Amorim’s hardline stance persists despite Manchester United’s offensive woes. Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund have managed just five goals between them in the Premier League this season. Nonetheless, the Portuguese manager is unwilling to compromise his expectations for Rashford or any other player, signaling a clear message about his commitment to discipline and work ethic within the squad.

The latest updates from Manchester United’s transfer activities involve notable names like Christopher Nkunku and Ayden Heaven. With Ruben Amorim still shaping his influence at Old Trafford, potential moves for Premier League talent may accelerate his progress.

As the January transfer window nears its conclusion, Manchester United remain engaged in negotiations for both incoming and outgoing players. While losing Alejandro Garnacho would be a reluctant sacrifice, the departure of others, such as Antony, might prove mutually beneficial.

Amorim’s tactical vision demands specific players to execute his strategies effectively. Although his system is still a work in progress, securing the right additions could hasten its success.

Links to Nkunku

Reports from ESPN suggest that Manchester United are targeting Christopher Nkunku in this transfer window. Enzo Maresca, speaking recently about the Chelsea attacker, shed light on Nkunku’s limited opportunities at Stamford Bridge.

Speaking to football.london, Maresca explained: “The problem, unfortunately, for João [Felix] and Christo, is that the manager prefers to play most games with one attacking midfielder, which is Cole Palmer.

“We’ve decided to focus on this setup for balance, and that’s why João and Christo have struggled to get minutes. It’s not about their quality – they’re fantastic players and great professionals.”

When pressed on whether this situation indicated an end to their Chelsea careers, Maresca responded: “I’m not saying that. I’m saying they’re struggling because of the current tactical setup.”

Analysis

The potential link to Nkunku raises eyebrows. While the Frenchman’s versatility and past success in the Bundesliga have been undeniable, his impact in the Premier League over the past 18 months has been underwhelming. At a rumored £70 million fee, questions arise about whether he’s the right fit for Manchester United, though a departure from Chelsea seems likely given his current dissatisfaction.

Ayden Heaven Rumors

Another player linked with Manchester United is Arsenal’s 18-year-old defender Ayden Heaven. Following United’s acquisition of Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal’s youth system last summer, the club is reportedly considering terms for Heaven, who has already made his debut in the Carabao Cup and regularly trains with Arsenal’s first team.

At a recent press conference, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was tight-lipped about the rumors. When asked about potentially losing Heaven, he simply said: “I cannot talk about anything.”

Analysis

The emphasis on nurturing homegrown talents has become critical under the Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). Losing another academy prospect to a rival like Manchester United could be a significant blow for Arsenal. However, United’s ability to offer more immediate first-team opportunities might sway Heaven’s decision. While Arsenal will hope to retain their young defender, Amorim’s evolving system could make Manchester United an attractive destination in the long term.

Chelsea’s chase for Argentine forward Alejandro Garnacho has taken a dramatic turn, with Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim declining to clarify the player’s future amid ongoing speculation.

The 20-year-old attacker has become a central figure in transfer rumors as the January window draws to a close. Reports suggest United may consider a lucrative sale of the academy graduate, a move that would provide a significant financial boost under the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

Chelsea, long linked with Garnacho, are reportedly stepping up their interest, having already shown an appetite for signing United’s young talents, including Kobbie Mainoo. Fresh reports emerged Thursday indicating the Blues are preparing a formal bid for the dynamic winger.

Garnacho delivered an electric performance in United’s dramatic Europa League clash against Rangers on Thursday. Back in the starting XI, he was United’s most dangerous player during the first half and nearly scored in the second, hitting the post from close range.

Following United’s nail-biting 2-1 victory—secured by Bruno Fernandes’ stoppage-time volley—Amorim sidestepped questions about Garnacho’s future. Speaking to reporters after the match, he said, “I don’t know what will happen. Right now, we are focusing on the games. Until the window closes, anything is possible.”

The Portuguese manager highlighted Garnacho’s contributions and growth, adding, “He’s improving in all aspects—positioning, recovery, and his understanding of the game. He showed frustration at times, but that’s because he demands more of himself, which is a good sign. I think he can reach even greater levels.”

With back-to-back away games against Fulham in the Premier League and FCSB in the Europa League coming up, Garnacho might already have played his final match at Old Trafford. Amorim was non-committal when pressed on the possibility, reiterating, “He’s a Manchester United player, and today he was vital for us. Let’s see what happens in the coming days.”

United’s financial situation has added fuel to the speculation. The club is rumored to be considering sales to fund new signings, including talks with Serie A club Lecce over left-back Patrick Dorgu. Marcus Rashford’s continued absence from the matchday squad has further stoked rumors of his potential departure, while Tyrell Malacia, another name floated for a January exit, came on as a second-half substitute against Rangers after Leny Yoro sustained an injury.

As deadline day approaches, the question of whether Garnacho will remain at United or become Chelsea’s newest recruit hangs in the balance.