Marcus Rashford Endures Brutal French Criticism Despite Key Role In Aston Villa’s PSG Defeat
Marcus Rashford’s Champions League return to Paris Saint-Germain with Aston Villa was meant to be a personal redemption. Instead, it has sparked a storm of harsh criticism from French media, questioning not only his performance but even his future as a top-level striker. The 3-1 defeat in Paris has left Villa facing a tough task in the second leg, yet beneath the result lies a complex tale that could affect Rashford’s career trajectory.
Once Manchester United’s prodigal son, Rashford was frozen out under new coach Ruben Amorim last winter and subsequently loaned to Villa in January. Since then, working under Unai Emery, he has enjoyed a mini renaissance, netting three goals and four assists across 13 appearances, including a brace that led Villa into the FA Cup semifinals. Wednesday night, however, saw his revival come under sharp focus against Europe’s most in-form side.
Ironically, the start was promising. It was Rashford who released Youri Tielemans with a deft pass that led to Morgan Rogers’ shock opener in the 35th minute. Fans back at United praised the vision: "Rashford is one of the best passers of the football in world football," tweeted one, while another called it a "world-class pre-assist at his playground" — a nod to Rashford’s fine record at Parc des Princes.
But as PSG gradually asserted their dominance, goals from Desire Doue, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and a stoppage-time strike from Nuno Mendes turned the tide decisively. Rashford, isolated for large spells, cut a frustrated figure. According to statistics cited by French press, he failed to register a shot, had just two touches in the opposition box, and completed only one of three attempted dribbles. By the 79th minute, he was replaced by Ollie Watkins.
French outlets lived up to reputations for severity. L'Equipe awarded him 4/10, calling him disappointing yet sparing him the worst ratings doled out to Jacob Ramsey and Matty Cash. Meanwhile, 90min France tagged Rashford ‘clumsy,’ dishing out a stinging 3/10: “Unavailable for 25 minutes… initially somewhat clumsy, he managed several important technical moves but the second half was far from noticeable.” Footmercato was more lenient at 4.5 but still termed it a “very difficult match.” Even manager Unai Emery wasn’t spared, rated just 3/10 by L'Equipe.
Unsurprisingly, such criticism has reignited debates around Rashford’s mentality and future. Former United striker Louis Saha weighed in bluntly: “He must get rid of all of this ego stuff… It’s about him, until his attitude changes we won’t see the real Rashford.” Saha added, “I still believe he can do it anywhere in the world if he decides to.”
Interestingly, reaction back in England was mixed. United supporters largely defended him, highlighting the classy pass for the goal and his responsibility in dragging Villa into attacking positions. Yet some lamented recurring flaws — “still doing the same stuff running into players, he’s not learning,” tweeted a sceptical fan. Speculation is rife whether Villa will exercise a rumoured £40m permanent option amid murmurs of renewed PSG interest.
For Rashford, scrutiny is nothing new, yet the sharp French media verdict has added an edge to his next outings. Villa’s second leg now appears an uphill battle, needing at least two unanswered goals to force extra time. However, the loan has largely been positive — at 27, Rashford still has the promise and time to rewrite the narrative.
Will Marcus Rashford silence the doubters in next week’s clash or does this setback foreshadow a turning point in his career? Share your thoughts, predictions, and debate whether the ‘real’ Rashford can still emerge when Aston Villa seek European redemption.
