Marcus Rashford reveals happiness is “important” to performance levels

Marcus Rashford has revealed “enjoying the things I’m doing” is as important to his performance levels on the pitch “as the football side of things” in a wide-ranging interview during Manchester United’s pre-season tour of America.

Speaking to the club’s in-house media team, the 26-year-old was asked “what makes him smile in life.”

“Just generally enjoying the things that I’m doing. I think that’s as important as the football side of things, because if you’re not enjoying yourself then it’s difficult to play your best on the pitch,” Rashford candidly revealed.

The forward endured a miserable 2023/24 campaign following the dizzying heights of the previous season, which saw him score 30 goals across all competitions and earn a blockbuster new five-year deal at his boyhood club.

Rashford only returned 8 goals last season as his, along with his teammates’, performances took a dramatic dip and United ended the season with an abysmal 8th place finish in the league.

The English forward, whose dismal form for his club saw him dropped from the national team for EURO 2024 this summer, was criticised earlier in the season after attending a birthday celebration following United’s 0-3 loss to local rivals Manchester City at Old Trafford.

While the negativity around this incident felt justified, Rashford once again hit the headlines in the wrong way later in the season for an even worse example.

The 26-year-old missed training and was dropped for an FA Cup tie after being pictured partying to the early hours in Belfast. Erik ten Hag was reportedly furious with his player’s actions and talks were held at Carrington, eventually leading to a resolution between the pair as the Dutchman was satisfied by Rashford’s contrition over the events.

However, these incidents do not speak to a ‘happy’ Rashford. Which is what makes his choice of words in this interview so revealing, and offer a potential return to the irrepressible form the forward demonstrated two seasons ago.

A happy Rashford is an effective Rashford. And, given the desperate need for goals in United’s forward line,  an effective Rashford is a necessary one for the Red Devils to enjoy any semblance of success this season.

The academy graduate reiterated his desire to win silverware with the club he’s played for since the age of seven – an opportunity he describes as a dream but stresses how aspirations change over time.

“I think as you get older, your dreams change as well. So, you know, in the beginning it was just about playing for Man United. And when you get there, it’s about winning. So I still have, you know, dreams of winning the big trophies, the Premier League and Champions League with Man United. So, you know, hopefully we can get that done.”

When asked about his thoughts on the club’s pre-season tour after the opening game – a 2-1 loss to Arsenal – Rashford was measured in his response.

“It’s been good,”  he replies. “I think training has been good. Obviously, we were disappointed not to win the game [against Arsenal], but I think we also got some valuable minutes against a good opposition. So, you know, two halves to take from the game. But we’re obviously looking to win more games going forward.”

With United’s attacking unit set to be one of the youngest in the Premier League this season – Rasmus Hojlund (21), Joshua Zirkzee (23), Alejandro Garnacho (20), Amad Diallo (22), Antony and Jadonh Sancho (both 24) – the 26-year-old Rashford is the most experienced forward at Ten Hag’s disposal.

United will need the Englishman to embrace the role of star forward which his wage packet and talent level, but not always his performances, suggest he can.

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