Ruben Amorim benches Alejandro Garnacho once more as Marcus Rashford is dropped

Alejandro Garnacho has been benched as Marcus Rashford faces another dropout from the squad ahead of Carabao Cup quarter-final with Tottenham

Ruben Amorim has benched Alejandro Garnacho and dropped Marcus Rashford ahead of Carabao Cup quarter-final clash with Tottenham after the pair were absent from the Manchester derby.

Both players have been linked with moves away from the club. Rashford had admitted that he wants a “new challenge” away from Old Trafford, while Garnacho hasn’t publicly addressed the rumours.

The Argentinian winger has found his way back into the squad as he is benched for United’s bout with Tottenham on Thursday (December 19). However, there was no room for Rashford, who wasn’t spotted with the squad when they made the trip down on Wednesday.

When questioned on why the England international wasn’t picked, Amorim stated that he was left out on selection grounds.

He said before the game: “Selection, I chose the players I feel are ready to cope with the demands of playing a strong game. I visualise all week and then chose my players, so just selection.

“Always the same with every player not just Marcus. I have to make a decision, so I did it. [On Garnacho] He’s good, one more option for the offence – he’s very fast.”

Fans have been reacting to the news on X as one wrote: “Garnacho not starting is a bit of a surprise,” and another commented: “Rashford snubbed again.”

A third said: “Yeah, Rashford is gone,” with a fourth adding: “[Rashford] not in the squad again? I have a dream!”, alongside a picture of the 27-year-old in a Barcelona kit.

This is the final quarter-final matchup in the Carabao Cup. Liverpool, Arsenal and Newcastle will all be watching as the semi-final draw will be completed shortly after the game tonight.