Marcus Rashford’s name was notably absent from England manager Gareth Southgate’s provisional 33-man squad for England’s Euro 2024 Selection, announced on May 21st. This unexpected exclusion comes as a surprise given Rashford’s strong performance at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where he scored three goals and helped England reach the quarter-finals.
The Reasons Behind Rashford’s Absence
Rashford’s underwhelming 2022-23 season appears to be the main factor behind Southgate’s decision. The Manchester United forward struggled to find his form, scoring a mere eight goals in 42 appearances across all competitions for the Red Devils. This pales in comparison to his impressive 30 goals in 56 matches during the 2021-22 season.
Rashford’s lackluster performance drew criticism from United fans, who accused him of lacking effort and walking around the pitch on numerous occasions. He responded to the criticism by calling out the “abuse” directed at him on social media.
Southgate acknowledged the difficult decision in his statement, saying, “These decisions are challenging. When it comes to Marcus, I believe that other players in that position have had more impressive seasons. It’s really as straightforward as that. This has been one of the most complex groups I’ve had to select from.”
Other Notable Absences and Inclusions
Former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson and Chelsea skipper Reece James were also notable omissions from the squad.
However, Chelsea forward Cole Palmer made the cut after a superb season. This came despite the absence of his teammate Raheem Sterling.
Manchester United’s Luke Shaw also found a place in the provisional squad despite being sidelined with injury for an extended period.
Several uncapped players were included in the provisional list, including Liverpool duo Jarell Quansah and Curtis Jones, Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton, and Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.
England’s Squad and Tournament Outlook
Southgate will trim his squad to 26 players by the June 7 deadline. England are placed in Group C alongside Serbia, Denmark, and Slovenia. Their group stage campaign begins on June 16th against Serbia.
Below is the entire provisional squad list for England.
Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford, Dean Henderson, Aaron Ramsdale, James Trafford
Defenders: Harry Maguire, Jarrad Branthwaite, Kyle Walker, Lewis Dunk, Joe Gomez, Marc Guehi, Ezri Konsa, Jarell Quansah, Luke Shaw, John Stones, Kieran Trippier
Midfielders: Declan Rice, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Conor Gallagher, Curtis Jones, Kobbie Mainoo, Adam Wharton
Forwards: Anthony Gordon, Jude Bellingham, Jarrod Bowen, Eberechi Eze, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, Harry Kane, James Maddison, Cole Palmer, Bukayo Saka, Ivan Toney, Ollie Watkins
Confirming the #ThreeLions' pre-#EURO2024 training squad! 🏴
— England (@England) May 21, 2024
Other Euro 2024 News
Cristiano Ronaldo, at the age of 39, is set to make his sixth appearance at the European Championship after being named in Portugal’s 26-man squad. This will make him the first player to participate in six European Championships.
Meanwhile, German midfielder Toni Kroos announced his retirement from professional football after Euro 2024. The 2014 World Cup winner will aim to win his fifth Champions League title with Real Madrid before his retirement, with the final against Borussia Dortmund scheduled for June 1st at Wembley.
Real Madrid acknowledged Kroos’ legacy in a statement on their website, stating that he “will go down in Real Madrid history as one of our club and international football’s greatest legends.”
Kroos has won four La Liga titles and over 20 trophies in his 463 appearances for Real Madrid.
Conclusion
Marcus Rashford’s exclusion from England’s provisional Euro 2024 squad is a major talking point. His absence, coupled with other notable omissions and the inclusion of uncapped players, sets the stage for a thrilling tournament.
With a star-studded squad and a manager known for tactical prowess, England will be aiming for a strong performance at Euro 2024. Rashford’s absence may leave a void in the attack, but the team will be looking to other players to step up and fill the gap. The tournament promises to be a compelling spectacle, with England poised to be among the contenders.
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