"I'll let him go" - Rio Ferdinand says he'd let Manchester United superstar leave depending on explanation for 'downturn in performances'

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has admitted he'd sell Marcus Rashford if the attacker couldn't defend himself regarding his drop-off in form. The English forward's future is uncertain after a glaring nosedive last season.

Rashford, 26, struggled with just eight goals and five assists in 43 games across competitions. He'd produced the best numbers of his career in the season before, and there are question marks over his commitment to the Red Devils.

The 60-cap England international missed out on a place in Gareth Southgate's Three Lions squad for Euro 2024. It's the first major international tournament he'll miss since making his debut for the national team in May 2016.

Ferdinand was tasked with deciding which Manchester United players to keep or sell. Rashford's name came up, and the club's iconic former defender was in two minds over the 26-year-old (via The Daily Mail):

"Interesting one, I think I need to talk to Rashford and find out where his heads at, what he wants to do, what's been the reason for downturn in performances. If I get the right answer I'll keep him, if I don't like what I hear then I'll let him go.

Rashford signed a new long-term deal with the Red Devils last summer, keeping him tied to Old Trafford until June 2028. He's spent his entire career with his boyhood club and hit out at critics questioning his commitment.

The Englishman has been linked with Ligue 1 giants PSG. Reports back in March claimed the Parisians were eyeing him as Kylian Mbappe's replacement, although they've not made a move for the Manchester United star.

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"Hope for a better season" - Ferdinand opted to keep Manchester United's Casemiro

Casemiro is expected to depart Old Trafford this summer.

Ferdinand gave his stance on many of Erik ten Hag's squad, including Casemiro. The Brazilian midfielder endured a difficult 2023-24 season amid a questionable run of performances, particularly as a makeshift centre-back.

Casemiro, 32, made 32 appearances across competitions, posting five goals and three assists. The former Real Madrid superstar looked vulnerable at times, including in a 4-0 loss to Crystal Palace (May 6).

Ferdinand was asked whether he'd keep or sell Casemiro. The Manchester United icon explained why he'd retain the five-time UEFA Champions League winner (via the source above):

"(Keep). For the experience and hope for a better season than last season."

Casemiro is being linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League to reunite with Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr. He's reportedly open to heading to Al-Awwal Park to link up with his former Madrid and United teammate.