Marcus Rashford reacts to losing Man Utd No.10 shirt

Marcus Rashford has wasted no time in showing that a change of squad number will not dim his ambitions at Manchester United. The England forward saw new signing Matheus Cunha handed the iconic No. 10 jersey, yet he delivered an emphatic response on social media and in training, insisting his focus is “on performances, not digits.”

Marcus Rashford’s determined response

Within hours of the announcement, Marcus Rashford posted a sleek highlight reel of last season’s goals, captioned “Numbers don’t score, players do.” Team-mates say the 26-year-old arrived early at Carrington the next morning, setting the tone with an intense finishing drill. Coaches welcomed the attitude, noting that competition could ignite the entire frontline as Erik ten Hag refreshes his attack.

Why United switched the No. 10 shirt

Club sources claim the decision was strategic rather than personal. Cunha, a £55 million arrival from Atlético Madrid, has long worn the number for club and country. Marketing experts inside Old Trafford also view the Brazilian as a key figure for expanding United’s footprint in South America.

Path back to a starting role

Marcus Rashford is determined to reclaim his status. Ten Hag values his versatility off the left, while insiders believe a central role remains possible if he sharpens his hold-up play. Pre-season friendlies in the United States will give Rashford the chance to underline his importance before the Premier League opener.

What this means for England

Gareth Southgate is monitoring developments closely. A motivated Rashford chasing a starting spot could be a major boost ahead of Euro 2024 qualifiers.

Opinion: Squad numbers may sell shirts, but mentality wins trophies. Rashford’s refusal to sulk and eagerness to prove himself suggest this minor setback could spark his most focused season yet.