Gary Lineker Says Rashford Wouldn’t Face Criticism If He Were White
Marcus Rashford’s Career Under Scrutiny and Move to Barcelona
Football analyst Gary Lineker has suggested that Marcus Rashford might not face the same level of criticism as other players, particularly due to his race and off-field commitments. Rashford, who broke into Manchester United’s first team nearly a decade ago as a talented teenager, has appeared in over 400 matches for the club.
In recent years, Rashford’s performances have been inconsistent, drawing attention from fans and pundits alike. Notable incidents include a reported 12-hour night out in Belfast after a strong season, which led to him missing training, and being criticized for celebrating his birthday following a derby loss. Some have questioned his professionalism, especially when he flew to New York to watch an NBA game during international breaks, rather than preparing for matches.
His fashion choices, such as wearing luxury watches, have also garnered media interest, with some suggesting that his high-profile activism—particularly his campaign against food poverty, which earned him an MBE—may contribute to heightened scrutiny compared to his peers. Lineker emphasized that Rashford’s advocacy and race make him a target for criticism that others might avoid.
Rashford acknowledged that public indifference to such criticism might be due to apathy, while others believe the focus should be on changing youth perspectives. Lineker noted that media in Spain tend to be more critical on-field but respect players off the pitch, suggesting his stint at Barcelona could offer a break from relentless scrutiny in England.
Throughout his career, Rashford has faced social media abuse and emotional pressure. Despite setbacks, he remains devoted to Manchester United, viewing the club as a core part of his identity, which he expressed in an open letter. Recently, he transferred to Barcelona on loan, seeking a fresh start. His performances in pre-season have been promising, including a goal in South Korea and an assist in Spain, indicating a positive beginning in his new environment.