Marcus Rashford's Man Utd future is being decided by 'one factor' says Ferdinand

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand believes the intense scrutiny surrounding Marcus Rashford is influencing his thinking.

Last month, Rashford publicly stated his openness to a new challenge, fueling speculation about a potential departure.

Since being dropped for the Manchester derby shortly before his comments, the 26-year-old has not played for the Reds and has only been included in one matchday squad.

While Rashford has not ruled out the possibility of staying at United, he remains absent from Ruben Amorim’s squad for Sunday’s Premier League clash against Fulham.

Speaking to the Daily Mail in Dubai, Ferdinand shared his perspective on Rashford’s situation, emphasizing the mental toll of constant scrutiny.

"Manchester United, and the people around Marcus, need to ensure he leaves in the best shape mentally and physically—mentally being the more important aspect," Ferdinand explained.

"I think he's been over-scrutinized for a few years now, but that comes with being a Manchester United player.

"When you're one of the faces of the club, this level of attention is part and parcel of the job.

"It’s easy for outsiders to suggest what he should do, but only Marcus and his team know what’s best for him—whether that’s staying in Manchester or moving elsewhere."

Ferdinand also highlighted the complexities of Rashford's decision-making process and the uncertainty that often accompanies such pivotal career moments.

"The real question is, where does he go? There are so many factors to consider, and only he can weigh the benefits of staying or leaving.

"If I were advising him, I’d tell him he’s unlikely to ever feel 100% certain about any decision at this crossroads.

"Whether he stays or goes, there will always be doubts. It’s about making the best choice with the information he has and trusting that it’s the right path for him."

Rashford’s future remains uncertain, but Ferdinand’s comments underscore the pressure players face when representing a club of United’s stature—and the challenges they encounter when deciding their next steps.