Marcus Rashford has released a 10-word social media post explaining why he was moved to tears in the aftermath of Manchester United’s FA Cup final win over Manchester City.
Rashford and his team-mates were heavy underdogs against the Premier League champions but triumphed 2-1 at Wembley through goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo.
After the final whistle, Rashford was seen in tears on the pitch as the United players basked in their glory of their cup triumph with their supporters. The striker’s emotions sparked fears on social media that the academy graduate will leave this summer following reports his future isn’t secure.
The 26-year-old is under contract at Old Trafford until 2028 after penning a £325,000-a-week extension last year. That came after a 30-goal season, the best of his career, in Erik ten Hag’s debut campaign in Manchester.
But Rashford has found things harder in the Dutchman’s second season. From 40 direct goal contributions in 56 games last term, the England international’s return this season was just eight goals and five assists in 43 appearances.
And posting a picture of himself with tears streaming down his cheeks at Wembley on Saturday evening, Rashford wrote: “People want to know what Man Utd means to me!”
The post was accompanied by a red heart and was greeted by an outpouring of love and support from United fans.
Left out of the provisional 33-man England squad for Euro 2024 earlier this week, United’s success against City will have meant even more for Rashford who has endured a tough season on and off the pitch.
His previous post on X came back on April 26. He replied to a post that read: “The way Marcus Rashford is being treated is absolutely disgusting. It’s cruel. It’s abuse.” The forward said in response: “I appreciate your support! It is abuse and has been for months. Enough is enough.”
But victory at Wembley helped United and Rashford end the season on a positive note. He has also reacted to being left out of England’s squad for the Euros, saying on Instagram: “Wishing Gareth and the boys all the best for the up and coming tournament.”
The United attacker was part of Gareth Southgate’s squad for all of the Three Lions’ previous three tournaments and scored three times at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. He has 17 goals in 60 caps for his country.
But Red Devils manager Erik ten Hag, who could be axed after the FA Cup final, has backed Rashford to use his international snub as motivation. The Dutch coach said: “[Rashford] looks good and that is the career with ups and downs so a down can also be fuel, that is what I see in training.
“He will be highly motivated, he is highly talented. He has already a big career. I am sure he will get over this and get even more goals.” Rashford will hope to use the summer break to get back to his best form next year.
