Rashford 2

You know, football has this crazy way of bringing people together. I had this moment recently at the FA Youth Cup semifinal—Aston Villa vs Manchester United. I was there to support the lads, obviously. It means a lot to me—coming through the academy myself. And while I’m up in the stands, I end up meeting this Ugandan guy. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting much more than a quick hello. But this guy, he was proper passionate. We got talking, and it turns out he used to be a massive United fan. Like, obsessed back in the day. He talked about watching me come up through the ranks, cheering on Rooney, loving every matchday. But somewhere along the line, he drifted. Said life got hectic, team had its ups and downs, and he just… stepped away. I looked at him and I said, “You’re already here watching United. It’s in your blood, mate. Why not come all the way back?” He kind of laughed, but you could tell it hit him. I reminded him what United stands for. It’s more than just results. It’s about identity, family, resilience. I told him, “Look around this stadium. Feel that energy. You never really stop being United. Sometimes you just need a moment to remember why you loved it in the first place.” And you know what really got him? I said, “You’re Ugandan. And I know—I know—how much love Ugandans have for United. I’ve seen the flags in the crowd, I’ve seen the watch parties. The passion is real. You lot support with your whole hearts. It’s beautiful.” He smiled. Big grin. He pulled out his phone and showed me pictures—him in the 2008 shirt, him celebrating a derby win back in the day. That spark came back, right in front of me. He said, “Yeah… I miss this.” I said, “Then don’t miss it anymore.” Right there, he followed the club again, said he was going to get back into the matches, follow the academy, even come back to Old Trafford when he can. And I was like, that’s what it’s all about. This wasn’t just about football. It was about connection. About reminding someone that they’re part of something bigger. United isn’t just a club—it’s a family. And once you’re in, you’re always in. So yeah, I made a fan come back home that day. And to all the Ugandan Reds out there—you lot are incredible. Your love for United is unmatched. We feel it, every game, no matter where you are. Keep supporting. We see you. We love you.