Journalist outlines 3 ways to get the best out of Marcus Rashford at Aston Villa | OneFootball

Aston Villa have bolstered their attack significantly, securing the loan signing of Marcus Rashford from Manchester United until the end of the season.

The England international joins former Real Madrid star Marco Asensio, who also arrived on loan, as Unai Emery’s side successfully strengthened their squad for a Premier League and European push.

Rashford’s departure from Old Trafford comes after a difficult spell under Ruben Amorim, who had sidelined him in recent weeks. The forward was notably left out of Manchester United’s squad for the Manchester derby, a decision Amorim defended by citing training performances, professionalism, and tactical considerations.

Since then, Rashford had been frozen out of the first team, sparking speculation over his long-term future at the club, with several clubs interested in signing him including Spanish giants Barcelona. In the end of a long lasting saga, he secured a loan move to the Villians.

Villa’s move not only provides Rashford with a chance to regain his best form, but also includes a £40 million option to buy in the summer. If the 27-year-old can rediscover his confidence and consistency under Emery, he could secure a permanent move to Villa Park.

Speaking about Rashford’s arrival, journalist Henry Winter outlined a plan for how Emery can maximise the forward’s impact. He emphasised the importance of playing Rashford in his natural position on the left wing, rather than deploying him centrally.

Rashford thrives when cutting inside from the flank, using his pace and finishing ability to trouble defenders. His brief appearance against Tottenham in his first game for Villa already showcased his energy and attacking intent, suggesting that he could flourish under Emery’s system.

Henry Winter on how Aston Villa could get the best out of Marcus Rashford

Photo credit: Official Aston Villa X account.

Winter also highlighted the need to surround Rashford with attacking support. With Lucas Digne’s overlapping runs from left-back and Ollie Watkins as the focal point in attack, Rashford will have more freedom to stay higher up the pitch and exploit defensive gaps.

At United, he was often forced to drop deep and create chances himself, limiting his effectiveness in front of goal. Emery’s system could provide him with the perfect environment to thrive.

Beyond tactics, Winter stressed that Rashford’s confidence will be key to his success at Villa. The forward endured a turbulent season at Old Trafford, struggling to establish himself under Amorim. However, the enthusiastic welcome from Villa fans and the belief of his new manager could help him turn his form around.

Winter noted that this is not about proving Manchester United wrong, but rather about Rashford proving himself right and showcasing the talent that once made him one of the Premier League’s brightest stars.

Writing in his column, Winter remarked:

“That has to be the approach Marcus Rashford takes to this wonderful opportunity handed him by Unai Emery at Aston Villa.

“Rashford seized the 30 minutes (including injury time) when coming off the bench against Tottenham Hotspur.

“He looked fitter than reported. He was heavily involved, pressing and passing. He was a threat, and will be even more so when Ollie Watkins is fit and Rashford can attack more off the left.

“Lucas Digne’s love of getting forward from left-back will also help Rashford, who is far more effective playing higher up the field, rather than building from deep.

“Rashford is also at his best when feeling surrounded by support. It’s not about proving Manchester United wrong (and let’s remember that this was a situation that Ruben Amorim inherited and a parting was best for all parties). It’s about Rashford doing justice to his undoubted talent.

“Emery is demanding and Rashford has to ensure yesterday’s cameo is sustained. Villa fans have given him the ecstatic welcome, Emery has given him the platform, and now it’s down to Rashford.”

His exit from United signals a fresh start, but also raises questions about his long-term future. Once considered the face of the club, Rashford’s role diminished significantly under Amorim, and his move to Villa suggests that a permanent departure in the summer is a strong possibility.