During Manchester United’s Carabao Cup semi-final clash against Tottenham, the traveling fans sent a resounding message to Marcus Rashford. A banner reading “Excuses. Ta ra Marcus” was unfurled in the away section, expressing their frustration with the forward’s recent performances and attitude.

Rashford, who was excluded from the squad for the North London fixture, has been under scrutiny after a string of lackluster displays and public criticism from head coach Ruben Amorim. This marked his second omission from the team in less than a week, having also missed the Manchester derby days earlier.

Adding fuel to the fire, Rashford recently hinted at a potential departure from Old Trafford in a candid interview. “For me, personally, I think I’m ready for a new challenge and the next steps,” he said, signaling his openness to leaving the club. Despite his declaration, Rashford insisted his exit would be amicable. “When I leave, it’s going to be no hard feelings. You’re not going to hear negative comments about Manchester United from me. That’s just the kind of person I am.”

The banner from United’s away fans drew parallels to a famous 1989 protest aimed at then-manager Sir Alex Ferguson, which read: “Three years of excuses and it’s still crap. Ta Ra Fergie.” While Ferguson ultimately turned things around to become a legendary figure at the club, the sentiment toward Rashford suggests a growing divide between the player and the fans.

Despite Rashford’s struggles, Amorim has defended the 26-year-old’s importance to the squad. “We are a better team with Marcus Rashford, that is simple,” Amorim remarked before the game. “This kind of club requires big talents, and Marcus is undoubtedly a big talent. My focus is on helping him rediscover his best form.”

Rashford’s decline is particularly stark when compared to his standout campaign two seasons ago, where he netted 30 goals across all competitions. However, his recent performances have left fans questioning his commitment and future with the club.

In his interview, Rashford also expressed a desire to avoid a controversial departure, stating, “If I know a situation is already bad, I’m not going to make it worse. I’ve seen how other players have left in the past, and I don’t want to be that person. When I leave, I’ll make a statement, and it will come directly from me.”

As speculation surrounding Rashford’s future intensifies, it’s clear both the player and the club are at a crossroads. Whether he stays to revive his career at Old Trafford or seeks a fresh start elsewhere remains to be seen, but the message from the fans at Tottenham was unequivocal.

Manchester United are gearing up for a crucial Carabao Cup quarter-final showdown against Tottenham tonight, with the Red Devils aiming to secure their spot in the semi-finals. Head coach Ruben Amorim stands just two victories away from a potential Wembley appearance and will look to extend his side’s winning streak on the road.

Following back-to-back away triumphs over Viktoria Plzen and Manchester City, United enter the match riding high on confidence. Their dramatic derby victory, sealed by late goals from Bruno Fernandes and Amad, has further bolstered morale as they head to the capital.

Amorim’s lineup decisions will undoubtedly attract attention, especially after his bold move to omit Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford from the squad entirely during the weekend. Whether either player earns a recall tonight remains to be seen, sparking intrigue among fans and analysts alike.

For Garnacho, the situation mirrors that of Rashford’s. Despite being left out of the derby squad and training at Carrington on Sunday morning, Garnacho has been in fine form this season. With eight goals and four assists to his name, the young forward is on track for his best campaign yet. The question now is whether Amorim will bring him straight back into the starting XI or ease him in from the bench.

Meanwhile, Rashford’s recent comments about seeking a new challenge may influence Amorim’s approach. However, Garnacho’s long-term potential at the club ensures he remains firmly in the manager’s plans. Amorim must decide whether to reintegrate both players simultaneously or prioritize one over the other for tonight’s clash.

Amad’s Irreplaceable Form
Among the many selection dilemmas facing Amorim, one thing seems certain: Amad must feature in the starting XI. The 22-year-old has been the standout performer of the Amorim era so far, playing a pivotal role in recent victories. Whether deployed as a No. 10 or as a right wing-back, Amad’s versatility and threat make him indispensable.

Amad’s contributions against Plzen and City showcased his ability to influence games from various positions, and his presence will be key as United aim to maintain their winning momentum.

Building Momentum
United’s recent turnaround has been remarkable. Less than two weeks ago, consecutive defeats—including a 3-2 loss to Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford—cast doubt on their progress under Amorim. However, back-to-back 2-1 wins against Plzen and City have reignited their campaign. Another victory tonight would further solidify their resurgence ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash with Bournemouth.

A Chance for Redemption
Tonight’s fixture also offers United an opportunity to avenge their 3-0 defeat to Tottenham earlier in the season. A lot has changed since that loss, including the departure of Erik ten Hag and Amorim’s subsequent arrival. Tottenham, despite their recent 5-0 win over Southampton, remain under scrutiny, with manager Ange Postecoglou facing mounting pressure.

For Amorim, this match represents a chance to demonstrate that United have become more resilient and organized under his leadership. A victory would not only secure a semi-final spot but also raise further questions about Postecoglou’s tenure at Spurs.

Scott McTominay has reflected on his pivotal decision to leave Manchester United, describing it as a “big decision” but one he feels confident about. The midfielder emphasized the importance of prioritizing his career, stating that he has “no regrets” over his move to Napoli.

The Scotland international began his journey with Manchester United at the age of five, rising through the youth ranks before making 255 senior appearances for the club across all competitions. During his time at Old Trafford, McTominay scored 29 goals, including a standout season in 2023-24 when he netted 10 times and lifted both the FA Cup and EFL Cup under Erik ten Hag.

Despite his contributions, McTominay was not a regular starter under Ten Hag. Seeking more consistent opportunities, the 28-year-old opted to join Antonio Conte’s Napoli in a £25 million transfer, signing a long-term contract through 2028.

Since his arrival in Italy, McTominay has impressed, tallying four goals and three assists in 18 appearances. Reflecting on the transfer, he described the move as both significant and straightforward. Speaking to BBC Scotland, he said, “It was a big decision, but in some ways it was quite straightforward. I saw the passionate fans, the coach, the players, and an opportunity. I took it. I didn’t look back.”

McTominay’s resolve to embrace the challenge was clear. “It didn’t take me long to decide because I knew this was what I wanted. I’ll never have any regrets in my life. Once I set my mind on something, there’s no stopping me,” he added.

The midfielder, who has started Napoli’s last 12 Serie A matches since debuting as a substitute, shared emotional details about his farewell to Manchester United. “On my last day, I had to go and see everyone. It wasn’t easy to say goodbye, but that’s football. That’s life,” he said. “I spoke to [Ten Hag], and he shared his thoughts. But ultimately, I knew I had to focus on my career and follow my instincts.”

McTominay’s move was amicable, with both parties understanding the circumstances. While Ten Hag publicly expressed a desire to retain him, the transfer aligned with Manchester United’s need to balance their finances and comply with Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations. “It was a mutual decision,” McTominay explained. “From their side, FFP made things challenging. But for me, it was about the opportunity here—the fans, the coach, and the chance to achieve something special.”

Now thriving at Napoli, McTominay plays alongside fellow Scotsman Billy Gilmour and has been instrumental in helping the team climb to second place in the Serie A standings, just two points behind leaders Atalanta BC.

Meanwhile, Manchester United has struggled in the Premier League under new head coach Ruben Amorim, sitting 13th in the table and six points adrift of the top four. McTominay’s departure marks a turning point in his career as he looks to cement his place as a key figure in Italian football.