Ryan Giggs believes Marcus Rashford is happier and playing better football since leaving Manchester United for Barcelona.
According to a report from The Mirror, Ryan Giggs, who turns 52 today, has reflected on Marcus Rashford’s decision to leave Manchester United, confirming his belief that the loan move to Barcelona was the correct choice for the player’s enjoyment of the game.
Giggs, who served as Louis van Gaal’s assistant when Rashford made his United debut in 2016, admitted that a return to Old Trafford “is not on the cards for Rashford,” when asked on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast earlier this year.
The 28-year-old forward has enjoyed a return to form in Spain, registering 15 goals and assists in 17 games across all competitions for Barcelona.
“No. I don’t think he looked happy at United,” Giggs told his former team-mate. “I think he looks happier now. I just don’t. Which is a shame because obviously I’d seen him as a part of the staff when we’d given him his debut.”
The Welshman also addressed the work ethic of the forward, stating that fans hold effort above all else.
“First of all, he’s got to work harder,” Giggs said. “I talked about no matter what position on the pitch you are, you sprint back as quick as you sprint forward, and aesthetically, it didn’t look great.”
He concluded with a stern warning about the fanbase’s expectation: “Because fans will forgive you for missing a chance.
They won’t forgive you for not working hard enough. They just won’t. Because they can do that. They can sprint. Everyone can.”