Michael Owen Brands Marcus Rashford Manchester United’s ‘Weak Link’ Amid Fulham Struggles

Owen questions Rashford’s body language after underwhelming Fulham showing

Michael Owen has suggested that Marcus Rashford is currently the “weak link” in Manchester United’s forward line, pointing to a lack of enthusiasm from the forward during Sunday’s draw with Fulham.

Rashford progressed through United’s academy to become a first-team mainstay, though his form dipped notably following his bumper 2023 contract extension. A breakdown in relations with former boss Ruben Amorim saw him farmed out on loan, first to Aston Villa, then Barcelona, where he chipped in with 25 goal involvements last season despite a fringe role.

Barcelona opted against a permanent deal this summer, and many assumed his United career had run its course. Instead, Michael Carrick chose to retain him. With Benjamin Šeško and Amad Diallo sidelined through injury, Rashford has started regularly but blanked for goal contributions across his last six outings.

Owen: ‘He doesn’t seem to be loving his football’

Speaking on Premier League Productions, via Metro, Owen said Rashford cut a frustrated figure against Fulham, adding that his “glum” demeanour has become something of a recurring issue.

“He just doesn’t seem to be loving his football, which has been a permanent frustration with Marcus,” Owen remarked, suggesting that once Šeško returns, Matheus Cunha could shift left and push Rashford further down the pecking order.

Valued at roughly £34million by Transfermarkt and tied to a contract until 2028, Rashford remains one of United’s highest earners. His versatility across the front line is undoubtedly an asset, but Cunha’s recent output — including United’s leveller against Fulham — makes a compelling case for prioritising the Brazilian on the left.

Whether this is a temporary dip or something more concerning for Rashford’s long-term United future is a conversation likely to run for weeks yet.