Sevilla manager Jose Luis Mendilibar has reacted to Manchester United naming Marcus Rashford in the travelling squad.
Erik ten Hag picked a 21-man squad, with Marcus Rashford one of four players returning from injury, along with Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia and Marcus Sabitzer.
Rashford is United’s top goalscorer with 28 this season and his return is a major boost for the Red Devils after he missed the first leg.
He scored the winner in United’s last game in Spain at Real Betis, and also netted away against Barcelona.
Rashford in contention
Sevilla boss Mendilibar spoke about Rashford at his press conference, and said that while he admires the Manchester United striker’s ability, he will not focus his pre-match preparations around the England international.
He told AS: “He’s one of the best strikers out there, but we’re not going to go one way or the other depending on whether Rashford plays.”
Mendilibar did go on to say he is sceptical that Rashford will play, having missed recent matches with a groin injury suffered against Everton.
He said: “I don’t think they’ll take risks with him, otherwise he’ll play someone else who’ll be very good too. People who have been injured are not easy to start playing.”
Whether he starts the game or not, Rashford will likely have some role to play. Erik ten Hag would not have brought him if he did not believe he was ready to contribute.
United also have to plan bearing in mind the FA Cup final at Wembley this coming Sunday. Making a mistake with Rashford’s usage against Sevilla could backfire.
Erik ten Hag has been very cautious with Anthony Martial’s fitness in recent weeks, and he may tread carefully with Rashford. One way or another, it is good to have him back.
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