Marcus Rashford faced a pivotal moment ahead of Manchester United’s 3-2 triumph over Newcastle, receiving an ultimatum from a discontented fan.
Despite featuring in 41 matches in a season that has fallen below expectations, Rashford, aged 26, has only managed to score eight goals.
As he and his teammates were going through a pre-match routine in the bottom right corner of the Old Trafford pitch, facing the Stretford End, a supporter descended several rows to deliver a clear message: “If you want to leave, leave!”
This remark pertained to the increasing speculation surrounding Rashford’s future, despite his commitment to his childhood club until 2026, as affirmed by a five-year contract extension signed last July.
In March, Mirror Football reported that Paris Saint-Germain were considering a £75 million bid for Rashford following Kylian Mbappe’s impending transfer to Real Madrid.
In response to the fan’s provocation, another attendee intervened, urging Rashford not to pay attention to the warning. As news of the confrontation spread among the crowd, Manchester United’s Christian Eriksen stepped in, pulling Rashford away.
While the warm-up continued, stewards approached the individual who confronted Rashford, while another fan—likely his son—guided him back to his seat. The aggressor faced criticism from nearby fans for his behavior.
Wednesday’s incident wasn’t Rashford’s first encounter with direct criticism from United supporters. In March 2021, following a 1-0 Champions League round-of-16 defeat to Atletico Madrid, the United academy graduate attempted to engage with a group of supporters outside Old Trafford, gesturing with his hand. Rashford later admitted that his emotions had overwhelmed him.
Despite the distractions off the field, Rashford marked his 400th appearance for Manchester United against Newcastle, aiding Erik ten Hag’s team in securing their first Premier League victory in four matches.