Don’t compare Rashford and Ronaldo- Louis van Gaal

 

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal says it is far too early to start comparing exciting youngster Marcus Rashford with club great and Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo. The 18-year-old Rashford has made a superb start to his United career, scoring another excellent goal during Wednesday's 2-1 FA Cup win at West Ham, to take his tally to six in 11 appearances.

It was pointed out to Van Gaal at his Friday press conference that Ronaldo took 40 games to reach six United goals, before he became far more prolific during his later years at Old Trafford. However, Van Gaal does not think the comparison holds water, pointing out that Ronaldo played in a different position during the first part of his United career.

He said “You compare apples with pears, I think, I don't agree with what you want to suggest, we have to wait and see. Of course, it is fantastic what Marcus has done until now, but you cannot compare him with Ronaldo, who played other positions. He was not a striker at Manchester United, I believe, and you cannot compare”

Van Gaal also brushed off further speculation about his future at Old Trafford, refusing to discuss whether his success developing young players such as Rashford might improve his chances of remaining in charge. He said “I don't discuss that with you, you can ask every time the same questions about what is happening with me. I don't discuss it with the media. The media is writing that, but that's your problem. I'm not discussing it”