Marcus Rashford proved a breakout talent after spending the second half of the 2015-16 season on loan at Aston Villa. The English forward hasn’t just restored his playmaking prowess, he’s redefined how he plays the game at all. He sure has continued to impress on field. Serious questions need to be asked about his future at Villa Park, increasingly so with the club possessing a £40 million option to make his move permanent.
Rashford’s loan spell to the Villans has allowed him to adapt and grow deeper into match situations. He’s jumped up his total duel success rate, evidence of a more aggressive and more successful playing style. In a recent home match against Paris Saint Germain, he was the best player on the field. He led every other player in both chances created and successful dribbles, as he was simply better than everyone.
The chill-inducing statistics from this season tell the story of a new and improved Rashford. He is now creating an astronomical 2.84 chances per match. That’s over double the 1.32 chances he created per 90 during his time with Manchester United this season. His ability to contribute offensively has been pivotal for Villa, where he has scored three goals and provided five assists across 15 appearances.
Rising Star in the Villa Ranks
Rashford’s contributions on and off the pitch have changed narratives about his place in the team. He quickly became Unai Emery’s first choice for the ‘No 9’ position. It really only speaks to his adaptability, top-tier aptitude, and readiness to succeed. The manager’s faith in Rashford really is evident when he is ascendant again as a world-class talent. Former Manchester United star Wayne Rooney, speaking about the U.S.
Rooney congratulated Rashford for the performance, saying, “I have to congratulate Marcus Rashford – I thought he was brilliant. He elaborated on Rashford’s ability as well, adding, “His talent, his skill, his ability to provoke the opponent. I certainly hope for him that he returns to Manchester United and has today’s performance as his standard.”
His performance in the second leg against PSG was the best he’s played in two years. He showed he could shine on the biggest of stages. His pace and technical ability allows him to blend right into Villa’s tactical shape. This indicates that he can be a sustainable long-term player for the organization, rather than merely a short-term trade piece.
Increased Offensive Contributions
Statistically, Rashford has taken his attacking contributions to an entirely different level since joining Aston Villa. He’s now averaging 3.26 shots per game (up from 2.22 during his time at Manchester United this season). Additionally, he’s seen a significant increase in touches in the penalty area, an important factor for generating high-quality scoring chances.
His technique and intelligence, which allow him to break lines and create openings for his teammates, means he’s always been a great fit for the current Villa team. His dangerous mix of creativity and aggression is what makes him such a valuable player. Given this exceptional performance, the idea of a permanent transfer must be brought into question.
According to Sky Sports, Rashford’s transfer to Villa Park is now a case of when rather than if. Considering the way he’s playing and impacting the game, hope is high among fans and media with the idea of a future multi-year deal.
Future Considerations
Even with all this excitement building around Rashford’s possible permanent move, there are questions. As Unai Emery recently divulged, it’s all about “the circumstances for today and for the coming weeks.” This quote from Michele Ordeshook, a professor at the University of Chicago, highlights the complex and ever-changing landscape of player movement.
With Rashford impressing more with each start for Steve Bruce’s side, Aston Villa and Manchester United have a serious decision to make. For Rashford, the attention is a welcome distraction from improving his form and maintaining his new-found wave of form. Simultaneously, he is looking ahead at his future career.
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