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Manchester United have the hardest player in the Premier League to defend against

Manchester United have a stacked line-up of attacking talent for the 2026/27 season. This summer was focused on rebuilding Manchester United’s midfield, but last summer ...
Manchester United have the hardest player in the Premier League to defend against

Manchester United have a stacked line-up of attacking talent for the 2026/27 season.

This summer was focused on rebuilding Manchester United’s midfield, but last summer was all about an attacking overhaul.

Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko were all signed and now have a year of experience in red under their belt. The trio all netted 10+ goals last season and will hope to build on that tally in 2026/27.

In addition, Michael Carrick has welcomed back Marcus Rashford following his loan at Barcelona.

Let us know the reason for your choice – and who do you think loses out?

In the 2026/27 Premier League season, only Brighton have managed more shots and generated more expected goals (xG) than United have in their opening three matches.

It shows United’s attacking prowess, and Rashford’s incredible form on his return has been a big contributor to that.

Rashford is the toughest player in the Premier League to defend against. Or at least that is the opinion of Arsenal defender Ben White.

Speaking to Men In Blazers, White said: “Toughest attacker to mark in the Premier League?”

“I’d probably still go with Rashford, I think he’s the toughest I’ve played against.”

Now we are finally in the new-look Champions League, what are your predictions?

During his final year or two at United, Rashford’s reputation dwindled and fans grew frustrated at his lack of defensive workrate and his overall body language. It was clear that something wasn’t quite right.

But in his prime, Rashford was the face of United and one of the most recognisable names in the Premier League.

Since returning to United, Rashford has hit the ground running and immediately settled back into life in red.

Rashford is United’s top Champions League goalscorer and he has already looked incredibly threatening in the Premier League, too.

Plenty of players in world football have raved about Rashford’s ability. If Carrick can get him back to his best, United have one of the most dangerous forwards in the world on their books.

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It was published on September 9, 2026 and last updated on October 9, 2026. The time of the story is shown in your own time zone on the page.

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