- Marcus Rashford is set to return for the FA Cup match against Arsenal after recovering from an illness, according to manager Amorim
- Despite his recovery, Rashford’s absence from the traveling squad has intensified speculation about his future at Manchester United
Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford is set to return for Sunday’s FA Cup third-round match against Arsenal after recovering from an illness, according to manager Ruben Amorim.
The 27-year-old missed four matches before being an unused substitute during United’s home loss to Newcastle United on December 30. He later fell ill, forcing him to miss the recent 2-2 draw against Liverpool.
Amorim initially dropped Rashford during United’s 2-1 derby win at Manchester City in mid-December, shortly before the forward hinted at seeking a new challenge after spending his entire career at the club.
Having made his senior debut in 2016, Rashford has scored 138 goals in 426 appearances and has helped the club secure multiple titles, including the Europa League, two FA Cups, and two League Cups.
“Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo are available and have been training. We will decide on their selection for the game,” Amorim stated during a press conference on Friday.
Addressing questions about potential player transfers during January, Amorim expressed his desire to retain academy talents: “Our idea is to keep the best players and build for the club. I like our players, and I want to keep them.”
As the holders of last season’s FA Cup title, United aim to add to their 13 titles, second only to Arsenal’s 14. “We know it’s a tough match, but we want to win and continue our journey,” Amorim said.
United’s second-choice goalkeeper, Altay Bayindir, will start against Arsenal, following his League Cup appearances earlier this season.
The Turkish international faced scrutiny for his performance in the 4-3 defeat at Tottenham Hotspur last month.