Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has publicly criticized Marcus Rashford’s effort, suggesting that he would rather give a place on the bench to the team’s 63-year-old goalkeeping coach, Jorge Vital, than the England forward. Rashford has not been involved in a matchday squad for United for six weeks, and Amorim’s comments have cast further doubt on the player’s future at the club.

Amorim’s criticism of Rashford centers on the player’s perceived lack of effort in training. The Manchester United manager emphasized that every player must give their maximum effort every day and that Rashford has not been meeting those expectations. Sources close to Rashford have denied that the player has any issue with Amorim, but it remains to be seen whether the forward will be able to win back his place in the team.

Manchester United’s victory over Fulham on Sunday was only their fourth Premier League win since Amorim took over as manager in November. The team’s performance was far from convincing, but Amorim was relieved to get the three points. He joked that his time at Manchester United had aged him 10 years, saying, “It’s not 40… I’m 50.”

The transfer window is set to close on February 3, and Manchester United has yet to make a signing. Amorim has warned that the club must be cautious in the transfer market, citing past mistakes. Winger Antony has already left the club on loan, and Argentina forward Alejandro Garnacho has been linked with a move away.

Garnacho started for Manchester United against Fulham, but his performance was largely flat. Amorim has emphasized that every player must earn their place in the team, and Garnacho will need to improve his form if he is to keep his spot.

Manchester United’s next match is against Crystal Palace, and Amorim will be hoping for a more convincing performance from his team. With the transfer window set to close soon, the manager will also be working to strengthen his squad and address the team’s ongoing struggles.