‘It Must Be Embarrassing,’ Rooney Reacts to Seeing Rashford at Carrington

Wayne Rooney recently shared his embarrassment for Marcus Rashford after spotting the Manchester United star training alone at Carrington.

The United legend noticed Rashford working with a fitness coach during a visit to watch his son, Kai, play for the youth team. Rashford’s training session took place near the pitches used by United’s junior players, leaving Rooney feeling second-hand embarrassment as parents walked past the England international.

Speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, Rooney recalled the incident, saying, “I was at Carrington on Sunday for my kids’ game day, and I saw Marcus Rashford out on the training pitch with a fitness coach. But he was right near where the parents were walking by for the kids’ games. I looked at him and thought how embarrassing it must be for him, with all the parents walking past.”

Rashford has faced a turbulent period at Manchester United, dating back to his December announcement last year that he wanted to leave the club for a “new challenge.” The revelation came in an unauthorized interview and followed his exile from the first team by manager Ruben Amorim, who criticized his training efforts.

Rooney believes Rashford’s situation has reached a point where a departure is necessary for both the player and the club. “I’ve spoken to Marcus a couple of times and shared my thoughts,” Rooney said. “I believe he needs to leave Manchester United. Whatever is happening in his life or at the club, he’s not the same player. For a fresh start, he needs to move on.”

The former United captain also expressed his shock over the accusations regarding Rashford’s lack of effort in training. “The fact that your manager is openly saying you’re not training right is crazy,” Rooney said. “Back when I asked Sir Alex Ferguson to leave the club, I still came in every day and gave everything in training.

“It’s sad to see this happening to Marcus. Personal pride should drive you to prove yourself every day, regardless of your situation with the manager. Back then, I wanted to show the likes of Roy Keane, Ryan Giggs, and Gary Neville that I deserved to be at Manchester United.”

As United prepares for their final Europa League group match against Steaua Bucharest, the uncertainty surrounding Rashford’s future continues to cast a shadow over the club. Whether his wish for a “new challenge” will be granted remains to be seen.