Erik ten Hag Issues Warning to Marcus Rashford About Party Lifestyle Amid Man Utd Form Concerns

Erik ten Hag has emphasized to Marcus Rashford the importance of living right both on and off the pitch if he aims to return to his best form.

After a challenging season that led to his exclusion from England's Euro 2024 squad, Rashford is beginning to find his stride again. He only scored eight goals last season, a stark contrast to his career-high 30 the year before, as off-field issues took a toll on his performance.

Ten Hag previously criticized Rashford for celebrating his birthday at a nightclub shortly after Manchester United's 3-0 defeat to Manchester City in the derby. Additionally, Rashford faced disciplinary action after missing training due to a trip to Belfast for a night out, which led to him being dropped for an FA Cup match.

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Despite these setbacks, Ten Hag has continued to support Rashford, and that faith has been rewarded, with the 26-year-old netting three goals and providing an assist in the last two matches. When asked about the difference in Rashford’s performance this season compared to last, Ten Hag noted, “He probably needed some help and backing, but ultimately, he has to take responsibility for his own success.”

“He has to set his life right, his training attitude right, his match attitude right. When he sets his professionalism right, he will perform, because he's a class player. I think he always knew - and every player knows [what they must do] - because when your lifestyle is not right, you can't perform.

“You don't get the right levels when you don't have a good and disciplined life away from Carrington [United's training ground].” Ten Hag hailed Rashford's mental fortitude for dealing with criticism, setbacks and off-field disciplinary issues, and regaining his form to remind the football world of his enduring quality.

“For every player who plays in the Premier League - but definitely in this club - you need to have some resilience,” said Ten Hag, with Rashford set to lead United's attack at Crystal Palace on Saturday. “No football career is only the way up, you always go down. You have to deal with it.

“Marcus has also experienced that. He knows when there are setbacks, how to fight back, how to set his career and his performance. He took control of it and he's on the way back. He started the season very well - now he has to continue and to progress.”

As Lee Carsley prepares to announce his second England squad for the October international break, Erik ten Hag suggested it wouldn’t be surprising if Marcus Rashford received a call-up. "I think he will always be an option for any England manager," Ten Hag remarked. "But ultimately, it's not up to me."