As the team prepares for their last Europa League game, is there a chance Rashford will be back in the lineup?

The ongoing saga surrounding Marcus Rashford at Manchester United has taken another twist, with the English forward once again being left out of the squad. This time, it's for a crucial Europa League fixture against Steaua Bucharest, raising further questions about his future at Old Trafford.

Manager Ruben Amorim has opted to exclude Rashford from the squad for this Thursday's match, a must-win game for United in their final group stage clash. This decision comes amidst growing concerns about Rashford's discipline and commitment, casting a shadow over his future with the club.

A Concerning Pattern

Rashford's exclusion from the Europa League squad is not an isolated incident. The last time he donned the United jersey was on December 12th, in a match against Viktoria Plzen. Since then, he has been conspicuously absent, missing a total of eleven games.

This pattern of absences raises serious questions about Rashford's status within the team. While Amorim has cited disciplinary reasons for his exclusion, the prolonged absence suggests a deeper issue at play.

A Crucial Match

Manchester United head into this Europa League fixture in a precarious position. Currently sitting fourth in their group with 15 points, they need at least a draw against Steaua Bucharest to secure their place in the knockout stages. A loss could see them drop out of the competition altogether.

The stakes are high, and Amorim's decision to exclude Rashford from such a crucial game underscores the severity of the situation. It sends a clear message that no player, regardless of their talent, is indispensable if they fail to meet the required standards of discipline and commitment.

A Test of Character

This latest snub presents a significant challenge for Rashford. It's a test of his character and his willingness to adapt to Amorim's demands. Whether he can regain his manager's trust and earn his place back in the team remains to be seen.

The situation also highlights the delicate balance between individual talent and team discipline. While Rashford's ability is undeniable, Amorim's stance demonstrates his commitment to fostering a culture of accountability and high standards within the squad.

The Bigger Picture

Rashford's exclusion from the Europa League squad is not just about one player. It's a reflection of the ongoing transformation at Manchester United under Amorim. The manager is instilling a new sense of discipline and professionalism, and players are being held accountable for their actions both on and off the pitch.

This approach may be tough, but it is ultimately aimed at restoring Manchester United to their former glory. Whether Rashford can be a part of that journey depends on his ability to learn from this experience and demonstrate the commitment required to thrive under Amorim's leadership.