Marcus Rashford among ‘miserable’ bunch at Man Utd – he’s ‘more than welcome’ to join Arsenal

Emmanuel Petit wants Marcus Rashford to leave Manchester United for Arsenal "right now".

The former Arsenal midfielder, who beat United to a league and cup double with the Gunners in the 1997/98 season, has urged Mikel Arteta to snap the out-of-form forward in the summer. Petit believes Rashford is "miserable" at Old Trafford after a torrid season where he has been criticised for his on-pitch form and behaviour off it.

Having arguably been United’s best player throughout the 2022/23 campaign, Rashford's season-long slump has sparked speculation about his future with the transfer window looming. Aged 26 with his best years still ahead, Petit sees Arsenal as an ideal place for Rashford – who has been left out Gareth Southgate's provisional England squad for Euro 2024 – to fulfil his potential, reports Football London.

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Petit drew parallels between Rashford's situation and Kai Havertz's tough three-year spell at Chelsea. Having seemed a shadow of himself at Stamford Bridge, Havertz won over fans at the Emirates Stadium this season by netting 13 goals in the league.

Speaking to BoyleSports, who offer the latest Euro 2024 betting odds, Petit said: "I know Kai Havertz has improved massively at Arsenal, but it's difficult to say whether Arteta could do the same with Rashford if he moved to the club.

"However, I have no doubt that Rashford needs a new start and I think Arsenal could be perfect for him. We all know the quality of Rashford for what he's done in years at Man United, but everyone questioned Havertz and his position when he moved from Chelsea. Would Rashford be good at Arsenal? Give me the paper, and let me sign it for him right now!

"Rashford in a good environment would be incredible for the Gunners as they all look miserable at United. I saw what happened with the fan and I understand his frustration, so if Rashford wants to leave, he's more than welcome at Arsenal and the door is open for him."

He added: "Havertz was in a strange environment at Chelsea and he wasn't happy, but he has smiled at Arsenal and I can finally see his teeth - I want that for Rashford."

A heated exchange between Rashford and a United fan before their win against Newcastle last week summed up the player’s mood. Rashford reacted furiously after the supporter in question reportedly moved down several rows and told him: "If you wanna go, go".

Arsenal are expected to sign a new forward this summer capable of playing in the wide positions, adding pace to their front line and providing competition for Bukayo Saka. However, Rashford primarily operates from the left flank, currently filled by Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard.

Should Arteta successfully manage to unlock Rashford’s potential, the Red Devils academy graduate’s skill in beating defenders and finding the net would play a huge role in Arsenal's title pursuit next season. He scored 17 league goals during the 2022/23 season, with a tally of 30 across all competitions.