Rashford Scores Late vs. Croatia but England’s Bench Role Raises Questions at World Cup

Marcus Rashford didn’t start England’s World Cup opener against Croatia. Thomas Tuchel left two Manchester United players—Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw—out of the squad entirely, and Kobbie Mainoo joined Rashford on the bench. That’s three Red Devils who might have expected bigger roles, and one of them made sure the manager noticed.

Rashford came on in the 72nd minute for Anthony Gordon and needed about fifteen minutes to change the game. England broke forward, Rashford collected the ball, cut onto his right foot, and buried it low into the corner. That made it 4-2 and sealed the group-stage win. It was the kind of finish that reminds you what he can do when he’s confident.

Numbers Tell a Mixed Story

Rashford didn’t complete a single dribble or key pass. He won exactly zero of his three duels. But he carried the ball forward six times, four of which were judged as progressive movements that pushed England into dangerous areas. So it wasn’t a perfect performance by any stretch—but it was effective where it counted most: on the scoreboard.

He also made one clearance, which sounds minor until you remember England were trying to protect a two-goal lead late. Every bit of defensive work mattered.

What This Means for Tuesday

England faces Ghana in their second group match on Tuesday. Rashford will hope his cameo earns him a start, but Tuchel hasn’t tipped his hand yet. The manager’s squad decisions so far suggest he’s willing to leave big names out if he doesn’t like the fit, and that could keep Rashford in a rotation role rather than a guaranteed spot.

Club Future Still Wide Open

Back at Manchester United, the situation is messy. Barcelona won’t trigger his €30 million release clause, and United hasn’t shown interest in a loan deal either. The club reportedly wants £40 million from any buyer that isn’t Liverpool or Manchester City—which is basically everyone else. There was chatter about Michael Carrick potentially bringing Rashford somewhere, but that doesn’t seem realistic right now.

The picture is pretty clear: United wants to sell, Rashford wants to play, and no deal has materialized. For now, his focus is on making sure England keeps winning. That goal against Croatia was a good start.