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Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has left the door open for Marcus Rashford to return to the team but insists the forward must make a crucial change.

The relationship between the pair soured in December when Rashford was left out of the squad for United’s 2-1 victory over Manchester City. 

Shortly after, the England international told journalist Henry Winter that he was “ready for a new challenge.”

Now on the verge of joining Unai Emery’s Aston Villa on loan until the end of the season—with an option for a permanent move—Rashford’s future at Old Trafford remains uncertain. 

However, despite their strained relationship, Amorim has revealed there is still a way back for the 26-year-old.

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‘He has to change’ – Amorim

The Portuguese manager has publicly questioned Rashford’s work ethic in recent weeks and made it clear that improvement is needed for him to be reintegrated into the squad.

“Imagine a talent like Rashford; our team should be so much better with him – but he has to change,” Amorim said.

“If he changes, we are more than welcome [to include him] – and we need it. But at this moment, we have to set some standards. We are waiting for Rashford, if he wants it really bad.”

Rashford, a lifelong United player since the age of seven, has made over 400 appearances for the club, winning the Europa League, two FA Cups, and two EFL Cups.

The 26-year-old has scored 138 goals for United, including a career-best 30 in the 2022–23 season. He made a bright start under Amorim, scoring in the manager’s first game in charge—a 1-1 draw at Ipswich on 24 November—before netting twice in a 4-0 win over Everton a week later.