Marcus Rashford’s recent form has been attributed to the forward’s recent state of mind, according to Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag, who also revealed that he was eager to work with Rashford before he arrived.
In 2021/22, Rashford had the worst season of his career.
Rashford, more than anyone else, has symbolised United’s turnaround in recent weeks following the team’s shocking back-to-back losses to Brentford and Brighton.
He contributed to the winning goal against Leicester, the game-changing victory over Liverpool, and all three of United’s goals against Arsenal. He was named the Premier League Player of the Month for September thanks to his last two performances.
“From day one, I was so excited to work with him,” Ten Hag, who was himself named Manager of the Month, told Sky Sports ahead of Sunday’s Manchester derby.
“I already knew the huge impact he can have and now he is bringing potential every game and decisions on the pitch. That’s why I’m happy with his development.”
When asked how he was able to bring out the best in Rashford once more, the United manager responded: “I told him on day one, ‘I want to see you smile every day’.
“We prepare good training sessions and it is up to you to love the training and give it your best because when you have pressure and enjoy the training, you can give your best and will improve. Life is easy because your performance has gone up.”