Leading up to the match, all eyes were on Marcus Rashford.
By the match’s conclusion, the ecstatic Manchester United supporters had moved on from thoughts of their former star.
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The team seemed to thrive in his absence, a point that new United manager Ruben Amorim emphasized after the match.
Rashford’s talent rightly deserved to be in the limelight — he was meant to be at the center of attention.
However, his diminishing diligence is quickly fading his star, and he must tread carefully if he hopes to keep his position at United beyond the New Year.
This omission sent a clear signal from Amorim, as both Rashford, 27, and 20-year-old Alejandro Garnacho were completely excluded from the matchday squad.
On the day of the match, they were instructed to train separately with Jonny Evans and Toby Collyer while the rest of the team readied for their journey to the Etihad.
Amorim has expressed his disappointment with their performances, both in training and in games, along with other issues.
Rashford’s decline has been particularly evident.
Once a figure of inspiration for young fans aspiring to emulate his rise as a cherished club star,
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His extraordinary journey from Withington to earning an MBE at Buckingham Palace for his remarkable efforts in aiding underprivileged and hungry children should not be overlooked.
On the pitch, just two seasons ago, he reached an impressive total of 30 goals in a single campaign.
‘It doesn’t look good’ – Roy Keane cautions Marcus Rashford about possible transfer departure from Man Utd after being BENCHED for City match
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Not long ago, everything seemed to be falling perfectly into place for him, but now it appears that it has unraveled rapidly.
The allure of fame, fortune, and the temptations associated with Premier League life captivated him, and he fully embraced them.
Once a modest young man who kept a low profile alongside his childhood girlfriend Lucia Loi, he began to adopt a more lavish lifestyle.
Regrettably, his relationship with Loi has also suffered due to this change.
Amorim could have justified their omission due to rotation, fatigue, or tactical reasons — instead, he chose to address their lackluster performance directly.
Rashford’s form took a significant hit last season, dropping from an impressive 30 goals the year before to merely eight.
Not only did he lose his spot in United’s starting eleven, but he was also left out of the England squad for the summer Euros in Germany.
Former United manager Erik ten Hag defended him, offering multiple warnings regarding his behavior both on and off the pitch.
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There was also the earlier event where Rashford was seen celebrating in the city following United’s 3-0 derby loss to Guardiola’s team last October.
Ten Hag deemed that behavior “unacceptable.”
His public relations representative claimed it was merely a family birthday celebration; however, this was far from the truth.
Later, on January 26, he was caught partying late in Belfast, right before he was due at training ahead of a Sunday FA Cup fixture in Newport.
Although he returned on a private jet, he called in sick.
When Ten Hag discovered the details, he was infuriated.
The manager even contemplated relegating him to the reserves but faced a shortage of players at the time.
The two barely communicated following that incident.
Man Utd player ratings vs Man City as sensational Amad Diallo turns derby on its head
AMAD DIALLO stunned Manchester City with a spectacular comeback.
The dynamic winger won a penalty, converted by Bruno Fernandes in the dying seconds to level the score.
However, the standout moment came later as Amad skillfully maneuvered past Ederson to net a late winner from a challenging angle during injury time.
Here’s how SunSport’s Neil Custis rated the Man Utd players…
Andre Onana – 6
He lacks the commanding presence required, and, as highlighted midweek in Plzen, his distribution continues to be a significant weakness in competition.
Despite this, he didn’t face much pressure during this match.
Lisandro Martinez – 7
Exhibited much greater composure under Amorim, compared to when he appeared anxious to live up to his moniker ‘The Butcher of Amsterdam’.
Provided a crucial through ball for Amad’s winning goal.
Harry Maguire – 8
Stood firm in a fierce contest with Erling Haaland, emerging victorious.
It was wise to include the former captain in such an important match. He seems to excel in a central defensive role.
Matthijs de Ligt 78′ – 7
Delivered a strong performance, appearing more comfortable alongside Maguire than with his other defensive partners.
Diogo Dalot – 5
Failed to provide an effective challenge against Gvardiol, which resulted in City’s opening goal. Offered little going forward from his wing-back role.
Bruno Fernandes – 8
Missed a crucial opportunity set up by Hojlund, shooting wide.
Nonetheless, under pressure at the penalty mark, he demonstrated composure, slotting one home to level the score.
Manuel Ugarte – 7
Solidly anchored in front of the backline, curtailing Phil Foden’s impact.
Noussair Mazraoui 78′ – 8
Proved to be the standout signing of the summer, seamlessly adapting to play as a right wing-back, becoming one of United’s top performers of the day.
Mason Mount 13′ – 6
Clearly disappointed to exit early due to injury. He has struggled with injuries since joining.
Amad Diallo 90′ – 9
Achieved a milestone in his career with a thrilling derby-winning strike. His impressive movement allowed him to capitalize on Martinez’s pass, cleverly evading Ederson, and though his shot was marginally mishit, it found the net.
He narrowly missed earlier with a header saved by Ederson.
Additionally, he was aware enough to win the penalty that led to their equalizing goal.
Rasmus Hojlund 78′ – 6
Notably involved in a physical exchange with Walker and a minor fall when appealing for a penalty.
He did provide a great assist to Fernandes that almost leveled the match.
Subs
Kobbie Mainoo 13′ – 6
Performed consistently, stepping back into a deeper role after Mount’s departure while Fernandes pushed forward.
Joshua Zrikzee 78′ – 6
Had little impact but effectively maintained possession as the game wound down.
Antony 78′ – 6
Joined the match eager to make an impact but struggled with confidence following limited starts.
Leny Yoro 78′ – 6
Gradually working his way back to full fitness after an injury this summer.
Victor Lindelof 90′ – 6
Had minimal time to make an impact on the game.
The Red Devils fans typically reserve their ire for their own — yet that seems to be the case for Rashford.
Supporters have noted his reduced effort, increased despondency, and alarming lack of commitment on the pitch.
His teammates have sensed this too, leading to confrontations during the matches.
Amorim’s recent entry from Sporting Lisbon had sparked optimism.
So why was Rashford spotted at an NBA game in New York, decked out in a Louis Vuitton jacket and flashy grillz the weekend prior to the new manager’s arrival?
This might be what Amorim referenced when discussing the importance of a player’s presentation.
Considering numerous recalls to the England squad around that time, any player in a replica jersey had a chance at selection — yet Rashford was conspicuously absent.
This illustrates how far he has fallen in the national team’s hierarchy.
Rashford scored within moments at Amorim’s debut against Ipswich.
He then netted two goals in a 4-0 victory over Everton.
However, he was benched for defeats against Arsenal and Nottingham Forest.
After that, he was substituted after 56 minutes in a Europa League away match against Viktoria Plzen. Amorim has made his assessment.
The Portuguese has assured that the player will have another opportunity — but it will be his last.
And one day, Rashford may genuinely regret these decisions . . .
