Revealed: "Cristiano Ronaldo Ruined Rashford’s Career at Manchester United" – Journalist Mark Ogden Claims

Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to Manchester United in 2021 was seen as a dream come true for many fans. However, according to journalist Mark Ogden, the move had a negative impact on Marcus Rashford’s development, ultimately leading to his departure from the club.

Before Ronaldo rejoined United, Rashford was growing into a key player for the team. He was expected to take on more responsibility and become the club’s main attacking force. However, Ogden believes that Ronaldo’s presence disrupted Rashford’s progress.

In an interview with ESPN, Ogden explained:

“Ronaldo destabilized Marcus Rashford’s development. At that time, Rashford was growing into a role where he was the main guy at United. But when Ronaldo arrived, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had to fit him into the team. That meant Rashford had to move out of position, and it changed his role completely.”

"Cristiano Ronaldo destabilised Marcus Rashford's development." 😱

ESPN's Mark Ogden says Ronaldo's move to Manchester United in 2021 changed Marcus Rashford's career 👀 pic.twitter.com/Ofnf0IVnl6

— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) February 4, 2025

In addition to Rashford, Edinson Cavani, who had performed well in his debut season at United, was also affected by Ronaldo’s arrival. Ronaldo was given Cavani’s famous number seven shirt, and Cavani lost his starting position. Cavani became frustrated as a result and eventually left the team.

Ogden claimed that rather than following football logical processes, the decision to bring Ronaldo back was motivated by marketing and nostalgia.

“As great as Ronaldo is, his return created too much noise off the pitch. It was more about the showbiz factor than improving the team. It wasn’t a football decision, and United paid the price. Rashford’s progress was halted, and he hasn’t been the same player since.”

Rashford had a poor 2021-22 season, scoring only five goals in 32 appearances. However, after Ronaldo left in 2022, he bounced back, scoring 30 goals in the 2022-23 season—his best-ever tally. But his form dipped again, managing just eight goals in 2023-24 and only seven goals so far this season.

Rashford chose to leave United on a temporary loan to Aston Villa because of his ongoing problems there. He may permanently quit United at the end of the current campaign because the deal includes a buyout option.

It’s unclear if Rashford will return to his peak performance, but Ogden believes that his problems stem from a single significant turning point: Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival at Old Trafford.