Ex-striker Troy Deeney urges Pochettino to sell Marcus Rashford

Manchester United manager Mauricio Pochettino faces an immediate challenge regarding the future of striker Marcus Rashford, according to former Premier League player Troy Deeney. Speaking to The Sun, Deeney advised the new head coach to sell the 29-year-old forward in the January transfer window if he does not quickly regain his form. Deeney believes this action is necessary to signal a fresh start for the club.

Rashford returned to Old Trafford from a loan spell at Barcelona last season. He struggled to make an impact under interim manager Michael Carrick. The English international missed the final five matches of Carrick's tenure due to a hip injury. Pochettino has since signed a two-and-a-half-year contract to replace Carrick as manager. Early reports suggested Pochettino was eager to work with Rashford and restore the player to peak performance.

Deeney disagrees with this lenient approach. He argues that Pochettino must dismantle what he calls the toxic culture at Carrington, the club's training ground. Deeney stated that managers and executives must address the core issues rather than making minor adjustments. He pointed to Arsenal as a model for decisive change, noting that the club pushed out high-profile players to improve the overall environment.

The former striker cited Mesut Ozil, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, and Alexandre Lacazette as examples of players who were removed to allow the team to breathe and focus. Deeney suggested that Manchester United must apply the same logic. He identified captain Bruno Fernandes and Rashford as the most likely candidates for departure. Deeney warned that Rashford will likely appear fit for the upcoming match against Liverpool to impress the new manager.

Deeney predicted a specific cycle of events. He expects Rashford to start well and gain initial confidence. However, when Pochettino demands higher standards, Deeney believes the player's previous habits will return. This includes arriving late to training and engaging in off-field distractions. Deeney urged Pochettino to give the squad until the January window to prove their commitment or be released.

The new manager arrived at the club with the task of stabilizing a team that has faced recent instability. Pochettino's arrival follows the end of Carrick's interim period. Rashford's status remains uncertain as the new coaching staff evaluates the squad's dynamics. Deeney's comments add external pressure on Pochettino to make early, potentially difficult, personnel decisions.