Marcus Rashford is a 'huge challenge' for Unai Emery as Aston Villa boss highlights 'huge potential to exploit' forward after Man Utd loan move

Rashford had been looking for avenues to leave Manchester United during the winter transfer window after having been cast out of the Red Devils squad by Ruben Amorim. However, after all the ventures for permanent exits dried up, Aston Villa signed the 27-year-old on a six-month loan deal with no obligation to buy in the summer.

Emery has now opened up about the signing of Rashford on deadline day, revealing that he won't question the winger about his issues at Manchester United. The Basque coach also opened up on facing a 'huge challenge' with the England international at Aston Villa this season.

Speaking to the media, Emery said: "My challenge with him is a huge challenge. His challenge with us is exciting.

"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.

"The conversation I had with him was a very normal conversation with a player and coach, speaking about football. I only want the best football from him. I think he has huge potential to exploit."

The 2022/23 Uefa Europa League top scorer could potentially make his Aston Villa debut on Sunday, February 9 when Emery's men take on Tottenham Hotspur in the fourth round of the FA Cup.