Manchester United defender Harry Maguire believes Marcus Rashford can play an important role for the team this season.
The 28-year-old made his first Premier League start for United in 21 months during the 5-2 win against Ipswich at Old Trafford, emerging as one of the team’s most dangerous attacking players.
His prospects at United had appeared uncertain after his relationship with former manager Ruben Amorim deteriorated. He subsequently joined Aston Villa and Barcelona on loan, with the Spanish side deciding not to trigger a £26m permanent transfer option.
As the transfer window is due to shut on Tuesday evening, Rashford now appears set to continue at the team where he began his career.
Maguire described Rashford as an exceptionally gifted player who consistently poses a danger to opposing defences.
He added that the squad would be pleased to have Rashford involved if the forward is committed to working hard, developing his game and contributing to the team.
Maguire acknowledged that Rashford still has room to improve, but said a fit, motivated and content player of his quality would be a valuable asset.
Rashford has faced considerable criticism in recent years, including during Erik ten Hag’s spell in charge.
Questions have been raised about his effort and dedication, along with suggestions that he may no longer take the same pleasure in playing football.
However, Rashford seemed to make progress while working under Unai Emery and Hansi Flick during his periods away from Old Trafford. Head coach Michael Carrick’s familiarity with the forward is also considered beneficial.
Maguire reminded critics that Rashford has already enjoyed an impressive career with United.
He explained that any player who represents the team for many years will experience difficult campaigns and inevitably attract heavy criticism when results decline.
Maguire also admitted that the organisation as a whole has made mistakes and has not competed consistently for the leading honours, meaning Rashford has been involved throughout a challenging period.
He said players often become targets in those circumstances and referred to his own experience after losing his starting position and captaincy under former manager Erik ten Hag, when his departure also appeared possible.
According to Maguire, Rashford has returned in excellent physical condition, looks sharp and has generated excitement within the squad.
Carrick has compared Rashford’s return to bringing in a new player. After revitalising Kobbie Mainoo when the midfielder had regularly been left out by Amorim, the coach must now raise his confidence again following his lack of playing time under England manager Thomas Tuchel at the World Cup.
Mainoo also received his first start of the season against Ipswich and became increasingly influential after United conceded the opening goal.
Maguire praised the young midfielder’s outstanding display.
He said Mainoo performed superbly despite having played only limited minutes during pre-season.
Maguire also highlighted the major improvement in Mainoo’s work when his team does not have possession since Carrick took charge, noting his growing strength in duels and ability to recover loose balls.
He stressed that Mainoo remains very young and will probably encounter difficult periods if he is to represent United throughout the next decade, just as Rashford and Maguire have done.
Maguire said such setbacks are a natural part of a player’s career, adding that Mainoo is calm, mature and highly confident in his own ability.
He expects the midfielder to develop into an exceptional player for United and remain an important figure for many seasons.
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