Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has stood by his decision to exclude Marcus Rashford from the squad during Thursday’s 4-3 Carabao Cup quarter-final loss to Tottenham Hotspur. Despite the setback, Amorim expressed no regrets over his selection choices.
Rashford, who has previously hinted at wanting a “new challenge” after being left out of the Manchester derby lineup, watched the match remotely. Alejandro Garnacho, who was also benched for the derby, made a substitute appearance but could not help United avoid elimination.
Coach explains his selection philosophy
Speaking to Sky Sports before the match, Amorim outlined his rationale behind Rashford’s omission.
“Selection,” he stated succinctly. “I chose the players who, in my opinion, were prepared to handle the intensity of this game. I evaluate the entire week’s preparation and then decide who will play.”
The bold move, however, did not yield the desired outcome, as United crashed out of the tournament. Nevertheless, Amorim insisted he would not change his approach, even with hindsight.
“If I feel I’ve done what’s best for the team, then it wasn’t a mistake,” Amorim explained. “Decisions like these come down to what I believe will benefit the team the most. The players who came on – Amad Diallo and Garnacho – had a significant impact on the game.”
Rashford’s future at United
Despite the current tensions, Amorim reiterated his commitment to keeping Rashford at Old Trafford. He emphasized that the forward remains an integral part of the team and is eligible for immediate reintegration into the squad.
“Marcus Rashford is, without a doubt, a Manchester United player,” Amorim affirmed. “We have training tomorrow, and he will be there, preparing for the next game. The selection for the upcoming match will be made then.”
United now face the challenge of regrouping after their cup exit, with attention turning to future fixtures and the hope of avoiding further disruption to their campaign.
