Ruben Amorim is not a good coach. He prioritizes and plays the players he loves rather than those who can truly contribute

“Ruben Amorim is not a good coach. He prioritizes and plays the players he loves rather than those who can truly contribute to the team’s success.

Both Marcus Rashford and I are the kind of players any manager would need to win and dominate games”- Manchester United Star Alejandro Garnacho laments

Amorim’s Bold Call: Rashford and Garnacho Omitted from Manchester Derby Squad

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has made headlines by omitting Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho from the matchday squad for the highly anticipated Manchester derby against Manchester City.

The club has offered no specific explanation for their absence, confirming only that neither player was selected for the bench.

No Injuries, Tactical Choice

Reports indicate both Rashford and Garnacho trained on Sunday morning and are not nursing injuries, suggesting a purely tactical decision by Amorim.

Addressing the situation, Amorim downplayed its significance: “We evaluate everything—training, performance, and engagement with teammates. It’s just a simple selection decision.”

Rashford’s Uncertain Future

Rashford’s exclusion adds fuel to speculation about his future at Old Trafford. Rumors suggest United may entertain offers for the forward during the January transfer window, with a reported valuation as low as £40 million.

This has raised concerns over Rashford’s form and consistency, despite his undeniable talent and prior contributions to the team.

Garnacho and the Dressing Room Leak Allegations

Garnacho’s situation is equally complex. Allegations of a dressing room leak, which his brother has publicly denied, have cast a shadow over his role within the squad.

The starting lineup for the derby reportedly leaked on social media before kickoff, though it remains unclear whether Garnacho had any involvement or if this influenced Amorim’s decision.

The Bigger Picture

Amorim’s decision to omit two key attacking players underscores his commitment to discipline and team cohesion.

It signals his willingness to prioritize standards over individual star power, even in a critical derby fixture.

The decision raises questions about squad dynamics and how Amorim intends to shape the team culture moving forward.

Impact on the Derby and Beyond

The absence of both Rashford and Garnacho adds intrigue to the Manchester derby and puts pressure on United’s remaining attacking options.

Amorim’s tactical gamble will be scrutinized, particularly if the team struggles without two of their most dynamic forwards.

For Rashford and Garnacho, this decision could serve as a wake-up call—or perhaps a signal that their roles in Amorim’s vision for United are under threat.

Whether this move strengthens the squad in the long run remains to be seen.

What’s Next?

If United manage a strong performance against City, Amorim’s decision will be lauded as a masterstroke.

However, if the gamble backfires, questions about his approach and the futures of Rashford and Garnacho will only intensify.

This derby could mark a turning point not just in the season, but in the careers of the two excluded stars.