Emery acknowledges 'huge challenge' of reviving Rashford's career at Villa
What's the story
Aston Villa's manager Unai Emery has admitted the mammoth task he has at hand to revive Marcus Rashford's career.
The 27-year-old forward joined Aston Villa on loan from Manchester United earlier this week, with a £40m option to buy.
Despite not having played since December and facing criticism from United manager Ruben Amorim, Rashford is set to make his debut against Tottenham Hotspur in the FA Cup fourth round at Villa Park on Sunday.
Manager's plan
Emery's strategy to tap into Rashford's potential
Emery said he was looking forward to unlocking Rashford's potential.
"My challenge with him is a huge challenge. His challenge with us is exciting," he said in a press conference.
"I don't want to know the reason he is leaving from Manchester but I am very happy keeping him here and I am very happy to try to exploit and help him recover his performances, individually and collectively."
Coach-player talk
Emery's conversation with Rashford and his belief in player's potential
Emery called his chat with Rashford a normal coach-player conversation about football. He stressed that he only expects the best football from him.
"I think he has huge potential to exploit," Emery said, confident of Rashford's abilities.
This statement highlights Emery's faith in Rashford's talent and his dedication to helping the player realize his full potential at Aston Villa.
Squad changes
Villa's Champions League squad excludes Malen and Garcia
Rashford was one of the five players Aston Villa signed in the transfer window, including Marco Asensio, Axel Disasi, Donyell Malen, and Andres Garcia.
However, as per UEFA rules, only three additional players can be registered for the knockout stage, so forward Malen and defender Garcia have been left out of Villa's Champions League squad.
Emery regretted the decision but said it was necessary due to the rules.
Stats
Rashford's stats at Man United
A product of Manchester United's academy, Rashford has enjoyed an illustrious career with the club since his senior debut against FC Midtjylland in 2016.
He has made 426 appearances for United and scored 138 goals. His contributions have helped the team win five major trophies.
This season alone, Rashford has made 24 appearances and netted seven goals for the club.
In 287 Premier League matches, Rashford owns a tally of 87 goals and 40 assists.