By Axel Reyes
Manchester United's recent slump, culminating in a 3-1 defeat to Brighton, has coincided with the continued absence of academy graduate Marcus Rashford. Manager Ruben Amorim has insisted that the decision for Rashford to be left out of the squad is entirely the player's own.
The 27-year-old has not featured for the Red Devils since december 12, and has only made the matchday squad once in the last nine games across all competitions. Even when he was named on the bench against Newcastle, it was only due to suspensions to Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte.
With the January transfer window approaching its deadline, United have been actively seeking a move for Rashford. However, potential suitors are put off by the hefty wage demands associated with the England international. It's likely that United would need to subsidize a significant portion of Rashford's salary if he were to depart on loan.
The club's performances have suffered in Rashford's absence, with United losing five of their last nine matches without him. The lack of a clinical finisher has been particularly evident, as highlighted by their solitary shot on target against Brighton.
When questioned about Rashford's omission from the squad, Amorim was adamant that the decision rested solely with the player. "No. It's his choice," the manager told reporters. "I don't want to focus on this bad moment because in these games that we lost, Rashford is not here. I don't want to blame Rashford for this moment. Rashford is out of this moment because he is not playing. Whatever happens, I'm not going to put a player on the pitch that I don't think is the best for the team."
With the transfer window closing soon, Rashford's future remains uncertain. If he does not secure a move away from Old Trafford, he will have to work hard to regain his place in the team. However, with Amorim seemingly unwilling to force the issue, it remains to be seen whether the England international can salvage his Manchester United career.
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