Marcus Rashford shows his true colours with tears as he confirms he wants Man United exit

Marcus Rashford's future at Manchester United is hanging by a thread, though not for a lack of love for the club.

The 27-year-old forward shocked fans on Tuesday by expressing his desire for "a new challenge", opening the door for a shock departure in the January transfer window. The revelation followed his unexpected omission from the squad by Ruben Amorim for Sunday's derby against Manchester City.

Rashford, who has been with United since he was seven years old, may have surprised many with his sudden wish to leave, but it doesn't necessarily indicate a lack of dedication or loyalty to the Red Devils. Case in point: his emotional response to United's FA Cup final victory over City at Wembley back in May.

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After the game, Rashford uploaded to social media a photo of himself in tears while applauding supporters during the post-match celebrations in London. The caption read: "People want to know what Man United means to me!"

The post underlines his profound love for his boyhood club and suggests that any potential exit would not be due to a lack of enthusiasm or lack of drive to help United get back to the summit of English and European football.

On Monday, Rashford was sent home from training, and spent much of Tuesday visiting his former primary school, Button Lane, where he handed Christmas gifts. During this visit, he told journalist Henry Winter: "For me, personally, I think I'm ready for a new challenge and the next steps.

"When I leave it's going to be 'no hard feelings'. You're not going to have any negative comments