On Sunday, Manchester United took on Manchester City at the Etihad and travelled without two usually key attacking players.
When Ruben Amorim’s starting line-up for the Manchester Derby was announced, eyebrows were raised with neither Alejandro Garnacho nor Marcus Rashford were included in the team.
Then upon reading further down the team sheet, it became evident that the pair were not only out of the starting line-up but also left out of the match day squad completely.
This was a bold decision from the Manchester United boss, which he explained before the magnificent 2-1 win over City.
“We try to evaluate everything: training, performance, game performance, engagement with the team-mates, pushing the team-mates up.
“Everything is on the line when we analyse, try to choose the players. So that is my selection. Simple”.
Now, Ineos‘ stance on the situation is clear.
What Ineos think about Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford exclusion
It was a big statement from Amorim, but United in Focus understand that the decision is one that the club are fully behind.
“I am told the club has no issues with Amorim’s handling of the situation”, journalist Graeme Bailey explained.
“He has made it clear to both that he hasn’t liked the attitude that either has shown and he has chosen this moment to make it clear to the squad as a whole what he expects.
“Amorim has certain levels and any player wanting to play for him has to hit certain levels of professionalism, attitude and commitment.”
This decision is not the end of either player’s chances under Amorim, but they must both use it to improve from, United in Focus are told.
“The reaction of both players is going to be key in regards to their long-term futures and whether they have one.
“United as a club insist both could still have very much have a future.”
Ruben Amorim fuming about one thing in particular at Manchester United
Amorim dropping both Garnacho and Rashford was certainly not predicted by anyone and suggests that the 39-year-old is incredibly unhappy with them.
But aside from this situation, United in Focus also understand that the team leaking debacle is also at the forefront of Amorim’s mind.
“The one thing that United and Amorim are furious about is the leaking of the team…which the MEN predicted.”
This is in relation to Saturday night when a Manchester Evening News journalist shared a leaked United line-up to face City, and it turned out to be 100 per cent true.
However, it appears this is not related to the absence of the United duo.
“Club saying that Rashford and Garnacho not being in is NOT related”.
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