Rashford: Man United 'simply weren't good enough' in the UEL final

Marcus Rashford has admitted that Manchester United ‘simply weren’t good enough’ in their Europa League final defeat to Villarreal as he revealed his struggles with injury this season.

United had just two shots on target in 120 minutes against the Spaniards in Gdansk before losing on penalties, extending the club’s trophy drought to four seasons.

Rashford, who suffered vile racist abuse online after the defeat, said: ‘I love this club, I love my city. This club has been home from the age of seven.

‘I’d be the first to say I’ve struggled this season. It’s not about commitment, dedication or ability.

'The reality is I’ve had physical obstacles I’ve had to overcome and I’m still managing.

‘There are no excuses for last night, we simply weren’t good enough. I’m really sorry that we couldn’t bring the silverware home. This will only add to my experience and growth.’

David de Gea, who missed the crucial penalty on Wednesday, tweeted: ‘Learn from the experience, fight again and win.’

Meanwhile, Rashford held a Zoom call with former US President Barack Obama to discuss the power of young people in society.

Rashford led a campaign in the pandemic to have free school meals provided during holidays.

Rashford said: ‘It’s quite surreal, isn’t it? I’m sitting in my kitchen in Manchester, speaking to President Obama. I realised just how aligned our experiences as children were in shaping the men you see today — adversity, obstacles and all.’

Obama said: ‘A lot of the young people I meet — including Marcus — they’re ahead of where I was when I was 23.’

Police are investigating a break-in at the London Stadium after United loanee Jesse Lingard’s watch was stolen from the West Ham changing room during their game with Everton on May 9.