Marcus Rashford started his Aston Villa chapter on Sunday following his loan move from Manchester United.
After spending a decade in the Manchester United first team, it was a strange sight watching Marcus Rashford enter the pitch in an Aston Villa shirt.
Rashford, who joined Aston Villa on loan last month, made his debut at Villa Park as a 66th-minute substitute in a 2-1 FA Cup win over Tottenham.
United fans were baffled by Rashford’s debut performance after watching the 27-year-old come on and lead a high press – something he looked incapable of in red.
Marcus Rashford sends message after Aston Villa debut
Following the announcement of his loan deal, Luke Shaw and Bruno Fernandes replied to Rashford wishing him luck at his new club.
There is a chance that the move becomes permanent with Villa holding a £40m buy option for Rashford as per the loan agreement.
It feels likely that the clause will be triggered if Rashford impresses in Birmingham, and he seems pleased by his start at the club.
After beating Tottenham, Rashford issued a nine-word message on Instagram that read: “Thank you for the warm welcome. Great team performance.”
Former United academy star Ravel Morrison sent two separate replies to Rashford, the first reading: “your time to shine” and the second: “Looked sharp my bro”.
Marcus Rashford’s first week at Aston Villa
Before sealing his move, Rashford held a private phone call with Unai Emery, where reports suggest he came across as “humble” and “focused”.
Despite Amorim criticising Rashford’s effort in training, it also seems that he has arrived in Birmingham in top shape.
Rashford’s medical was outstanding, with the United star recording one of the lowest body-fat percentages in the entire squad.
That was evident when he came on at Villa Park and injected plenty of energy into Villa’s attack. It only adds to the frustration for United fans who have been crying out for more effort from him.
Ruben Amorim is ready to move on from Rashford, but there will be plenty of attention on his performances at Villa.
Next up for Villa is Ipswich Town in the Premier League, and Rashford will be hoping to make his first start at his new club.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
