Marcus Rashford's career at Manchester United has been nothing short of a rollercoaster, with the England international experiencing both the highs and lows of football under different managers.
The Mourinho Era: A Struggle for Confidence
During Jose Mourinho's tenure at Old Trafford, Rashford often found himself on the fringes of the squad. The Portuguese manager's pragmatic style didn't always suit the young forward's attacking flair, leading to limited opportunities and a dip in form.
The Turning Point Under Ten Hag
Fast forward to Erik ten Hag's arrival, and Rashford has been revitalised. The Dutch coach's faith in the academy graduate has paid dividends, with Rashford becoming one of United's most consistent performers. His pace, directness, and eye for goal have made him indispensable to Ten Hag's system.
Key Stats That Tell the Story
- Under Mourinho: 87 appearances, 18 goals
- Under Ten Hag: 45 appearances, 24 goals (as of latest season)
The numbers speak for themselves, highlighting Rashford's remarkable transformation under Ten Hag's guidance.
What Changed for Rashford?
Experts point to several factors in Rashford's resurgence:
- Improved tactical understanding
- Greater freedom in attacking positions
- Enhanced physical conditioning
- Renewed self-belief
With Ten Hag at the helm, Rashford looks set to continue his upward trajectory, proving that sometimes a change in management can make all the difference.
