Rio Ferdinand gives real reason why Rashford was left out of Man Utd's derby game

Rio Ferdinand has claimed that Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho were dropped because he “heard or saw something he was unhappy with” in training.

The duo were surprisingly omitted from the squad for the crucial Manchester derby, which Manchester United won 2-1.

While many speculated on tactical reasons, Ferdinand believes the issue lies deeper.

"I think in the training ground, he's [Amorim] instructed all of his staff to keep their eyes open about everything," Ferdinand said on his podcast.

"How do these players interact with all members of staff? How are they when I'm not in the room? He seems like a man of detail."

He added: "I think he's seen or heard a couple of things that he isn't quite happy with. There's something not related to football that I think has happened.

"They probably flippantly did not say hello to someone or have not been as warm to people."

Ferdinand's comments suggest that Amorim's decision was not solely based on tactical considerations, but also on the players' behaviour and attitude towards their teammates and staff.

"These little one-per-centers add up to building a culture to win," Ferdinand explained.

"If you let these go, the culture to win takes even longer. Every single detail, 'I don't like that, nail it'. Punctuality, respect for team-mates, etc."

He re-iterated: “I think something’s gone on in the training ground, and I’m not privy to that information.

"But for him to talk about things not related to football about why players aren’t in his squad that week, something’s happened off the pitch. He’s thought ‘that ain’t for me’. And by the way, I love it.”

Amorim, meanwhile, insisted after the game that the out-of-favour duo will be given the chance to work their way back into his good books. "Next week, next game, new life," he told reporters.

While Rashford and Garnacho are undoubtedly talented players, their recent performances and off-field behavior have raised concerns.

Their omission from the derby squad is a clear indication that Amorim is not tolerating any complacency or unprofessionalism.

As United look to rebuild under Amorim's leadership, it's clear that the club is prioritizing discipline and hard work. Players who fail to meet these standards, regardless of their talent, will face the consequences.