Rene Meulensteen tells INEOS how to reignite key Man Utd player’s form

Sir Alex Ferguson’s former coach, Rene Meulensteen, believes INEOS should make a key decision to reignite Marcus Rashford’s form for the club.

The Reds have had an underwhelming season this term under Erik ten Hag, although there could be success at the end with an FA Cup final to compete in.

Ultimately, though, new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS team will be searching for ways to improve the club on and off the pitch.

Additions of Jason Wilcox as technical director and Omar Berrada as chief executive, as well as the expected deal for Dan Ashworth to head the project as sporting director, have all been positive off-pitch moves.

The summer transfer window will be their first opportunity to address the playing squad, as well as the manager. Ten Hag’s future remains in the balance after a difficult campaign.

Meulensteen, who worked under Sir Alex Ferguson and coached the likes of Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo, believes that Marcus Rashford needs a change to return to his top form.

The English forward had an excellent 30-goal season in Ten Hag’s first season but has regressed this term alongside an underperforming team as a whole.

Ferguson’s former coach has suggested that INEOS should either sell Rashford if they are planning to keep Ten Hag or allow him time under a new manager next season.

“It’s difficult to see Marcus Rashford perform as he is this season as last season he was excellent and also was a big part of England’s World Cup campaign,” the Dutchman told the MEN.

“Rashford burst on the scene so well and has performed really well for Manchester United. There has been a lot of pressure on him and one can argue he hasn’t had the quality of players around him to benefit his game.

“He is a Manchester lad, and it would be a shame if he leaves as I believe he understands what it means to be a player for Manchester United. But it’s not just Rashford who isn’t playing to their full potential. Maybe a change of coach can help him.

“Maybe a move could also benefit his game as he has been at Manchester United since the youth team, he has come through the academy, and it’s a proud academy at Manchester United.”