Gabby Agbonlahor supports Marcus Rashford’s move to Aston Villa, calls Manchester United ‘negative club’

Gabby Agbonlahor has backed Marcus Rashford’s decision to leave Manchester United and join Aston Villa, claiming it was necessary for the England forward to rediscover his form. Speaking on talkSPORT, the former Villa striker argued that Rashford had struggled for confidence and performance at United, making the move to Villa Park a positive step.

The 25-year-old has impressed since joining Villa on loan in January, scoring three goals and assisting four in just 11 appearances. Agbonlahor believes Rashford is following in the footsteps of players like Angel Di Maria, who thrived after leaving United.

Agbonlahor said: “I said ages ago… that (Rashford) needs an arm around the shoulder." He continued: “How many players are we talking about now? That leave Manchester United and get better – look at (Angel) Di Maria. He’s left Manchester United and gone to be a better player, exactly as it’s happening now."

"Maybe the key to a top career at the moment is if you're stuck at Man United, get out of the negative club. Everything about the club is negative. Rashford’s free and is enjoying his time at Aston Villa.”

Rashford is expected to lead Villa’s attack again this weekend as they face Nottingham Forest in the Premier League. Villa are still in contention for European qualification, just three points behind fourth-placed Manchester City.

Aston Villa secured Marcus Rashford's services on loan from Manchester United in January 2025, with an option to purchase him permanently for £40 million during the subsequent summer transfer window. The loan agreement includes Villa covering at least 75% of Rashford's £365,000 weekly wages, potentially rising to 90% based on performance-related incentives.

This arrangement followed Rashford's diminished role at Manchester United under manager Ruben Amorim, who cited concerns over the player's commitment in training