10 fun facts about Marcus Rashford

Marcus Rashford MBE, born on October 31, 1997, is a professional footballer from England. He currently serves as a forward for Manchester United in the Premier League and represents the England national team. Rashford began his football journey in the Manchester United youth system, joining the club at the tender age of seven.

In February 2016, he made an impressive impact by scoring two goals on his first-team debut against Midtjylland in the UEFA Europa League. Just three days later, he continued his goal-scoring spree by netting on his Premier League debut against Arsenal.

Rashford’s remarkable start continued as he found the back of the net in his first Manchester derby, as well as on his debuts in the EFL Cup and UEFA Champions League. Throughout his career at Manchester United, Rashford has achieved significant success, winning the FA Cup, two EFL Cups, the FA Community Shield, and the UEFA Europa League.

In May 2016, he made his debut for the England national team and became the youngest English player to score in his first senior international match. Rashford has since represented England in two UEFA European Championships, with his participation in 2016 making him the tournament’s youngest player.

He also played a crucial role in England’s journey to the final of the 2020 European Championship, where they finished as runners-up to Italy. Additionally, Rashford has represented England in the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cups. Some interesting facts about him are;

1. Some members of his family are Manchester United fans

It’s quite interesting to know that even though Rashford himself is a die-hard Manchester United supporter and proudly played for them, he has shared that a surprising twist exists within his family.

Believe it or not, half of his beloved family members are actually passionate Manchester City fans! It just goes to show that football rivalries can even exist within the closest of kin.

2. Attended Man United academy

Rashford underwent training at Manchester City’s Platt Lane academy prior to ultimately opting to join Manchester United. Residing in Fallowfield, close to City’s academy, there was concern that United might miss out on Rashford as it appeared more geographically convenient for the young player to join the Cityzens. However, the Red Devils’ training program ultimately convinced him to choose United.

3. He’s against child hunger

Marcus has devoted a considerable amount of time to speaking out against child hunger and poverty, launching a campaign to provide free school meals during school holidays. With the support of the public, the government implemented policy changes to ensure that no child would go hungry.

In 2020, he co-founded the Rashford Foundation with his family, which aims to address child poverty and food insecurity in the UK by raising funds and providing support to various charities.

4. Has been awarded an MBE

Rashford’s dedication to addressing child poverty led to him receiving an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in 2020, as well as being recognized as one of Time Magazine’s 100 most influential people globally. He is highly esteemed for his altruism and his proactive approach to creating a positive impact on society through his influential platform.

5. Recipient of the first FIFA Foundation Award

In 2020, Rashford became the inaugural recipient of the FIFA Foundation Award for his outstanding philanthropic work during the difficult circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic.

6. Rooney and Ronaldo were his role models

As a young lad, Rashford looked up to the iconic Manchester United stars, Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo. Little did he know that one day he would have the incredible opportunity to share the pitch with these football legends.

7. Making history

Rashford made history as the youngest player to score a goal in a Manchester derby, securing his club’s victory against their city rivals in 2016 at just 18 years.

8. He co-wrote a best-selling book

In 2021, Marcus unveiled his latest publication titled You Are a Champion: How to Be the Best You Can Be, a motivational handbook co-authored alongside journalist Carl Anka.

This remarkable guide encompasses captivating stories from the footballer’s journey and incorporates invaluable advice from performance psychologist Katie Warriner, enabling readers to unleash their utmost potential and become the finest version of themselves.

9. Came close to winning Golden Boy Award twice

Rashford narrowly missed out on winning the Golden Boy awards, coming in second and third place in the 2016 and 2017 editions.

10. Second youngest Man Utd player to reach 100 appearances

Rashford became the second youngest player in Manchester United’s history, following Ryan Giggs, to reach 100 appearances for the club. He accomplished this feat at the age of 22 years and 92 days, showcasing his quick ascent to success and significant contribution to the team.