Paul Gascoigne has offered some pointed advice to Marcus Rashford, suggesting that the Manchester United star might benefit from leaving Old Trafford for a new challenge. The former England midfielder believes that a move away from the Premier League could be the catalyst Rashford needs to reignite both his form and his passion for the game.
Rashford, who had an exceptional 2022/23 season with 30 goals, has since struggled to maintain that level of performance. At 26, his goal tally has sharply declined, with only eight goals in the following season, raising concerns about his place in Manchester United’s lineup. Although he showed flashes of brilliance, such as in a thrilling 3-3 draw against FC Porto in the Europa League, his form has been inconsistent.
This inconsistency resulted in him being dropped from the starting eleven against Crystal Palace, and his performances against teams like Twente and Tottenham have drawn heavy criticism from both fans and pundits alike.
As Rashford continues to struggle, rumors have surfaced about Paris Saint-Germain renewing their interest in the forward, potentially offering him an opportunity to escape the pressure he faces in the Premier League. Gascoigne sees this interest from PSG as a prime chance for Rashford to take a new direction in his career and find a fresh start.
In a conversation with *SportsCasting*, Gascoigne expressed his thoughts on Rashford’s current situation at Manchester United. He stated, “I think leaving is the right decision for him.” Gascoigne went on to explain that while he greatly admires Rashford as a player, there is something holding him back. “Even when he scores, he doesn’t look like he’s enjoying it. That tells me there’s something deeper going on, and if you’re not happy, it’s time to move on,” Gascoigne added.
Gascoigne’s comments go beyond Rashford’s inconsistent form and touch on his mental state, suggesting that his recent performances lack the joy and enthusiasm that were once hallmarks of his game. Gascoigne believes that a move abroad, possibly to Italy’s Serie A, might provide Rashford with the reset he needs. “He could flourish in a new environment, and plenty of top clubs would be keen to sign him,” Gascoigne said.
Reflecting on his own career, Gascoigne recalled how transformative his move from English football to Lazio in Italy was. The switch to a new country, combined with a different playing style and more intense training sessions, had a major impact on his development. Gascoigne vividly remembered the shock of his first day with Lazio. “The warm-up was brutal—twenty laps just to get started, followed by all kinds of stretches. I wasn’t sure I could handle it,” he admitted.
Gascoigne’s father played a pivotal role in encouraging him to persevere in Italy, even joking that he had already made plans to settle there. “My dad told me, ‘You better get used to it because I’ve found a villa, and I’m moving in.’ It was tough, but it did wonders for me. I think Rashford could benefit in a similar way,” Gascoigne recalled.
For Gascoigne, Rashford’s potential departure from Manchester United is not just about improving his on-field performance, but also about rediscovering his love for the game. Gascoigne pointed out that Rashford’s body language in recent matches suggests he is disengaged, something Gascoigne himself experienced in his own career. A move to a new league, a fresh environment, and the opportunity to experience a different football culture could help Rashford reignite his passion and career.
With Paris Saint-Germain reportedly interested again, Gascoigne feels that now could be the ideal time for Rashford to take a leap and start a new chapter in his career. Whether it’s Serie A or Ligue 1, Gascoigne believes that Rashford’s future success could lie outside of England. The question now is whether Rashford will take the bold step to embrace the next challenge that could redefine his career.
