In the initial half of Manchester United’s Champions League clash against Copenhagen at Parken Stadium on Wednesday, Marcus Rashford faced an unexpected turn of events as he received a red card.
Having recently returned to the lineup after missing a game due to a minor injury, Rashford’s presence took a negative spotlight when he failed to complete the first half, contrasting with Rasmus Hojlund’s commendable performance for Copenhagen.
The incident leading to Rashford’s red card occurred during a collision with Copenhagen defender Elias Jellert. The Lithuanian referee, Donatas Rumsas, initially did not perceive the severity of the incident. However, a VAR review was initiated to assess the potential for a red card, prompting the referee to reevaluate the situation.
Upon examination of the pitchside monitor, Rumsas observed Rashford’s attempt to shield the ball from Jellert’s pressure. However, in the process, Rashford’s foot crossed the ball, making contact with Jellert’s ankle as he sought to retain possession for Manchester United.
In the slowed-down footage, the contact with Jellert appeared more impactful, causing the defender’s foot to bend unnaturally. While Rashford’s intent was not malicious, the referee deemed the action careless and endangering an opponent, leading to the issuance of a red card.
Former Manchester United players Owen Hargreaves and Paul Scholes, present in the TNT Sports studio, came to Rashford’s defense, expressing disbelief at the decision.
Hargreaves argued vehemently, stating, “It wasn’t a red card in a million years. Marcus is simply trying to move his leg towards the ball. Not even his eyes are on the ball. It is terrible to watch a still serving as the referee. It’s not malicious, nor is it significant foul play.”
Scholes emphasized the role of the referee’s understanding in such situations, describing it as an accident where Rashford was attempting to protect the ball by planting his foot.
The unexpected red card for Rashford became a point of contention, with the former United players highlighting the absence of malicious intent and the referee’s interpretation of the incident.
The incident added a layer of complexity to the match and sparked debates over the appropriate application of red cards in situations involving unintentional but impactful collisions.
