Aston Villa’s Champions League journey may have ended in heartbreak, but Marcus Rashford left a different kind of impression in Paris this time — especially in the eyes of the French media.
Unai Emery’s bold choice to start Rashford over Ollie Watkins in the decisive second leg against Paris Saint-Germain raised eyebrows. But while the Manchester United loanee offered little in a frustrating first half, his second-half revival injected fresh hope into Villa’s comeback quest.
With Villa trailing 5-1 on aggregate, Rashford suddenly burst into life. His clever assist for Ezri Konsa’s 57th-minute strike gave the English side a 3-2 lead on the night — a glimmer of something extraordinary in the making. Though he was subbed off shortly after, Rashford’s impact was undeniable, and the shift in Villa’s attacking rhythm after his exit spoke volumes.
Following a disappointing display in the first leg, Rashford was hammered by French outlets. This time, though, their tone shifted — slightly.
“Marcus Rashford initially showed himself to be lively but clumsy,” 90min wrote in their 6/10 rating. “But his second half was of a completely different nature. More direct, more precise… he brought the danger and creativity that the Villans needed.”
Maxifoot echoed the sentiment with a 6.5/10 score: “Preferred to Watkins up front, the Aston Villa striker delivered a two-part performance… the player on loan from Manchester United had a more interesting contribution [after the break].”
Both outlets noted his determination, combination play, and close calls that forced Gianluigi Donnarumma into top-tier saves — not to mention the crucial assist.
Emery Backs His Man
After the match, Unai Emery praised Rashford’s performance in a post-match interview with Amazon Prime. “He is feeling better and he played a fantastic match. We are very happy. If he is happy, we are happy.”
Villa are reportedly considering a permanent move for the 27-year-old, despite the financial complexities surrounding his substantial wages. But with Emery’s backing and a growing sense of fit at Villa Park, Rashford may have found a new stage on which to revive his best self.
