Marcus Rashford out of Manchester United’s trip to Liverpool with illness-OxBig News Network

Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford has been ruled out of Sunday’s crucial Premier League clash against league leaders Liverpool at Anfield due to illness, manager Ruben Amorim confirmed.

Rashford, 27, has endured a challenging period, having been excluded from United’s squad for four consecutive matches earlier in December due to perceived poor performances and attitude concerns. Though he was named on the bench for the 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United on December 30, the England international did not feature, marking his fourth consecutive game without playing time.

Amorim addressed the situation ahead of the Liverpool match, stating: “At the moment, he is ill. He is not training, and this week he is out. It’s the same situation as before. We will see in the future, but right now, he is a normal player like anyone else, and I make selections accordingly.”

Rashford’s absence comes amid one of Manchester United’s most turbulent campaigns in decades. The club sits 14th in the Premier League standings with just 22 points from 19 matches, marking their lowest end-of-year position since 1989. United’s recent form has been abysmal, with five losses in their last six league games and three straight matches without a goal.

Speculation over Rashford’s long-term future at United has intensified after he publicly stated his desire for a “new challenge” in mid-December. The academy graduate, who has been with the club since the age of seven, has scored 138 goals in 426 appearances, securing the Europa League, two FA Cups, and two League Cups along the way.

Serie A giants Napoli are reportedly interested in acquiring Rashford, with United open to a loan deal if his substantial wages-exceeding £300,000 a week-are covered.

Amorim also addressed the club’s ongoing leadership crisis, calling for improvement from senior players. While confirming that United will activate an extension in Harry Maguire’s contract until 2026, Amorim stressed the need for the defender to grow into a stronger leader. “We are starving for leaders on the pitch,” Amorim said.

Meanwhile, United are close to securing a long-term contract extension for Amad Diallo, who has been one of the standout performers during Amorim’s tenure. The Ivorian scored the winner in last month’s Manchester derby and is expected to sign a deal keeping him at the club until 2029.