Rooney calls out Rashford's defensive work-rate as United fall 2-0 to Atletico Madrid

Marcus Rashford was singled out for criticism by Wayne Rooney and a vocal section of Manchester United supporters after a subdued performance in the club’s 2-0 Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid. The 28-year-old started under manager Michael Carrick but struggled to influence the game in either direction at the Metropolitano.

The sharpest moment of scrutiny came when Rashford appeared to allow Atletico midfielder Pablo Barrios to run unchallenged before United conceded a free-kick. Alejandro Grimaldo stepped up to take the set-piece and struck the post, narrowly failing to beat goalkeeper Senne Lammens.

Rooney, analysing the game at half-time, was direct in his assessment. “If you look at Marcus Rashford here where he is, and he just lets Barrios run past him — that can’t happen when your team is under pressure,” the United legend said. “You have to stay with your runner. You have to put the work in, and whether that means staying with your runner or staying with him until you can pass him on.”

Fans on social media echoed the concern. Several pointed to Rashford’s lack of defensive tracking as a recurring issue, with one writing: “Marcus Rashford just walking back and watching Atletico players sprint away from him.” Another questioned the team selection directly: “How is Matheus Cunha dropped for that?”

It was Rashford’s fifth start of the season across all competitions, and the result leaves United with serious work to do in the tie. Atletico scored the opening goal inside the first minute, setting the tone for a difficult evening that Rashford and his teammates were unable to turn around.

The defeat intensifies scrutiny on both the player and Carrick’s early decisions as United manager, with Rashford’s role in the side and his commitment off the ball now a clear talking point heading into the next fixture.