Red Card Nightmare

Manchester United's Marcus Rashford had a wistful smile on his face as he was shown a red card during the team's match against FC Copenhagen. This incident seems to capture the essence of Rashford's troubled season, where everything that can go wrong has gone wrong.

A Season of Struggles

Rashford, who recently returned to the team after an "unacceptable" visit to a nightclub, received his first red card in five years and only the second of his professional career. This unfortunate event occurred as Rashford's goal drought extended to 11 appearances, and United faced the prospect of an early exit from the Champions League.

Off-Field Issues

As United's players left the field after a 4-3 defeat to FC Copenhagen, news broke that Rashford's brother and agent had been arrested in the United States on a domestic violence charge. This adds to the weight on Rashford's shoulders, as his struggles on the pitch reflect a broader malaise at Old Trafford.

A Lack of Leadership

Rashford, known for his social justice work and his role as a local hero, carries extra responsibility in a squad lacking in leadership qualities. Last season, he scored 30 goals for United, but this season he has lacked conviction and self-belief in a team that has lost its attacking identity.

Suspension and Elimination

Rashford's red card means he will be suspended for United's upcoming Champions League match against Galatasaray. A loss in that match would result in United's elimination from the competition, while a draw would require a win against Bayern Munich in the final group match to have any chance of advancing.

A Frustrated Manager

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag expressed his team's frustration after the match, highlighting their ill fortune in conceding four penalties in the Champions League this season. While he acknowledged that Rashford's challenge may have been misjudged due to VAR's technology, he also recognized the team's shortcomings in conceding two quick goals.

Own Worst Enemies

Ten Hag's assessment that United has been bedeviled by extreme misfortune is not shared by their opponents, who have witnessed United's own mistakes leading to their downfall. With a record of nine losses in 17 matches this season, United's lack of goal-scoring and defensive lapses have been their own undoing.

Hope for Resurgence

Rashford's best performances this season have come outside of the club, such as his impressive display for England against Italy. At United, there seems to be a lack of unity behind Ten Hag, with some players reportedly unhappy with the management of Jadon Sancho and Harry Maguire. Long-term injuries have also hindered the team's progress.

A Changing Landscape

Despite the team's struggles, Ten Hag's job is likely safe due to uncertainty at the boardroom level and an impending regime change. Ineos chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who recently acquired a 25% stake in United, is expected to take control of football operations. Ratcliffe will rely on Rashford, a fellow Mancunian, to rediscover his form and lead the team to a resurgence.