England striker Marcus Rashford has seemingly aimed a subtle dig at Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim after scoring his first goals for Aston Villa in their FA Cup quarter-final victory over Preston.
Rashford, who left United on loan last month after falling out of favor under Amorim, has quickly established himself as a key player for Villa, who have the option to sign him permanently at the end of the season.
The 27-year-old netted a brace, including a penalty, as Villa cruised to a 3-0 win on Sunday to secure a spot in the FA Cup semi-finals.
Speaking to BBC Sport after the match, Rashford hinted that he feels fitter and is enjoying his football more since making the move.
“It’s a great feeling. I feel like I’ve been getting fitter and playing better football since I’ve been here. It’s obviously nice for a forward to get a goal, so hopefully, it continues.”
He added: “I think we just have to take it one game at a time, give 100% on the pitch, and see where it takes us. We’re a very ambitious team—we want to win, go as far as possible in all competitions, and push to get back into the top four.”
Rashford also emphasized that he is still working on his fitness but is pleased with his progress:
“Step by step. I think I can still get fitter. I missed a lot of football before joining up with them. At the minute, my body feels good, I’m injury-free, and I’m enjoying my football, so all good for now.”
Former England international Micah Richards weighed in on Rashford’s resurgence, suggesting that he is better suited to playing under Villa boss Unai Emery than at United, where he struggled to fit into Amorim’s system.
“The difference is Emery has got a structure, he’s got a plan,” Richards said. “Under Ten Hag, it was difficult, and the new manager Amorim has also found it difficult to put across exactly what he wants.”
He continued: “If you’re going to play a different formation, where is Rashford going to fit? Is he playing in a front three or as a wing-back? It doesn’t really suit him.”
Richards believes Rashford is now thriving in a more structured setup:
“He’s coming into an environment where everyone knows their jobs, and he’s just adding his skill, pace, and know-how to that team.”
