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Tuchel backs Rashford to become one of the world’s best forwards
Marcus Rashford. Yukihito Taguchi-Imagn Images

Thomas Tuchel backs Marcus Rashford to become one of the world’s best forwards

Marcus Rashford’s career has long been marked by flashes of brilliance and moments of frustration. 

Now, under the guidance of Thomas Tuchel, the England forward has been challenged to turn his talent into consistent, world-class performances.

Tuchel, who took charge of England earlier this year, believes Rashford has all the attributes to become one of the game’s elite attackers, but insists that natural ability must now be matched by end product.

Speaking during England’s World Cup qualifying campaign this week, the German delivered both high praise and a pointed warning.

"He can be one of the best in the world because the finishing and the quality I see in training, with both legs and his head, he is explosive, he is fast, he is strong in the air, so for him there are no limits," Tuchel said, via Sky Sports.

"But the numbers don't reach the potential. He needs to push himself with goal involvements. He knows that from me.”

Rashford’s new chapter in Catalonia

Rashford’s loan move to Barcelona this season has given him a fresh start after a turbulent spell at Manchester United. The 27-year-old has shown glimpses of his best form, registering three goals and five assists in 10 appearances for the Catalan side.

His standout performance in the Champions League, where he struck twice in a 2-1 win over Newcastle, was a reminder of the game-changing ability that has long made him such an exciting talent from a young age.

Despite those signs of progress, Tuchel made it clear that Rashford’s challenge lies in consistency.

“But potential is a dangerous word with high-level sports, because you have to reach your personal best on a regular basis - that is demanded on this kind of level and that is the challenge for him. It is not a question of talent,” he added.

"It is a question of whether he can prove the point at club and international level; this is his task. If he starts fast or if he comes off the bench, he has to constantly prove himself."

Since Tuchel’s arrival, Rashford has featured regularly for England, earning selection in all but one squad. It’s a stark contrast to 2024, when he was left out of Gareth Southgate’s final European Championship squad.

The England manager has shown faith in Rashford but continues to push him to refine his game, warning that the forward must make the most of his prime years or risk looking back with regret over what he could have achieved.

For Rashford, the message is clear. The tools are there with his pace, power and precision, but time is no longer on his side. Tuchel’s belief is unwavering, yet so is his demand that potential alone won’t define Rashford’s legacy, consistency will.

Matt Evans

Matt Evans is a sports journalist from the United Kingdom, now based in Paris, France. He has covered various sports including basketball, soccer, boxing, MMA, and motorsports.  Over the past decade, Matt has focused heavily on the NBA and has worked with many established outlets on a variety of content

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