Marcus Rashford has openly acknowledged a significant shift in his form, pinpointing Manchester United’s clash against Aston Villa earlier this season as the moment he began playing “much better” football. The England international, who endured a prolonged slump last campaign, has rediscovered his confidence and cutting edge in recent months—a resurgence that could prove pivotal as United push for Champions League qualification.
Speaking ahead of United’s crucial Premier League run-in, Rashford reflected on how Unai Emery’s high-flying Villa side inadvertently helped trigger his return to form. “Sometimes you need that one game where things just click,” the 26-year-old said. “Against Villa, I felt sharper, more involved. Since then, I’ve built on that performance.”
A Season of Struggle and Revival
Rashford’s admission offers insight into a turbulent 18 months for the forward. After a career-best 30-goal season in 2022-23, his output plummeted last term, with just eight goals in all competitions. His body language frequently drew criticism, and speculation mounted over his future at Old Trafford.
Yet since the turn of the year, Rashford has looked a different player—more direct, more clinical, and visibly happier on the pitch. His upturn has coincided with United’s improved results, with Erik ten Hag’s side now firmly in contention for a top-four finish.
The Villa Game: A Turning Point
United’s 3-2 comeback win at Villa Park in February appears to have been a catalyst. Rashford didn’t score that day, but his relentless running and intelligent movement caused constant problems for Villa’s defense. More importantly, he played with a freedom that had been missing for much of the season.
“That was a big match for us,” Rashford recalled. “Villa were flying, but we showed character. Personally, I felt like I was making the right decisions again—when to take players on, when to pass. That’s when you know your confidence is coming back.”
Since that game, Rashford has contributed five goals and three assists in 10 Premier League appearances—a marked improvement on his early-season struggles. His underlying numbers have also spiked, with increased shot volume, higher dribble success rates, and more touches in the opposition box.
Ten Hag’s Role in Rashford’s Resurgence
Erik ten Hag has played a crucial part in Rashford’s revival. Despite intense external pressure, the Dutchman kept faith with his star forward, resisting calls to bench him during his poorest run of form.
Marcus is a player who needs trust,” Ten Hag said recently. “When he feels that, you see what he can do. He’s unstoppable at his best.”
Tactically, Ten Hag has also tweaked Rashford’s role, using him more frequently on the left wing rather than as a central striker. This shift has allowed him to isolate defenders one-on-one—a scenario where his pace and trickery are most effective.
Emery’s Indirect Influence
Interestingly, Aston Villa boss Unai Emery may have unwittingly contributed to Rashford’s resurgence. The Spaniard’s high defensive line at Villa Park played into Rashford’s strengths, giving him space to exploit behind the backline—a vulnerability he repeatedly punished.
Emery, who previously praised Rashford as a “different player” when in form, sets up his teams to dominate possession, often leaving gaps in transition. For a forward like Rashford, whose game thrives on quick counters, such matches can be the perfect platform to rebuild confidence.
What’s Changed Mentally?
Beyond tactics, Rashford’s mental approach has evolved. Last season, he faced intense scrutiny—not just for his performances, but also for his off-field commitments, including his high-profile campaign against child food poverty. Some critics argued his activism was affecting his focus, though Rashford has always dismissed that notion.
Now, he appears to have struck a better balance. “Football is about highs and lows,” he said. “Last year was tough, but I’ve learned from it. You can’t let outside noise dictate how you play.”
Teammates have also noticed a change. When Rashy is smiling, you know he’s going to cause problems,” said Bruno Fernandes. “He’s been massive for us lately.”
The Road Ahead
With United fighting for a Champions League spot and an FA Cup final looming, Rashford’s return to form couldn’t have come at a better time. His ability to deliver in big moments—evidenced by key goals against Manchester City and Liverpool this season—will be vital in the season’s decisive weeks.
Longer-term, his revival strengthens United’s attacking options as the club plans for a future under potential new ownership. Had his slump continued, questions over his place in the squad would have grown louder. Now, he looks every bit the cornerstone player United need.
Conclusion: A Star Realigning with His Potential
Marcus Rashford’s career has always been a story of resilience. From his meteoric rise as a teenager to his struggles and now his latest resurgence, he has repeatedly shown an ability to bounce back.
His acknowledgment that the Villa game sparked his improvement speaks to a player who understands his own rhythm—when to reflect, when to push forward. For United, a confident, in-form Rashford could be the difference between a season of promise and one of genuine achievement.
As the campaign reaches its climax, one thing is certain: the Marcus Rashford of old is back. And for defenders across the Premier League, that’s a ominous prospect.
