Anthony Martial’s tenure at Manchester United has fallen short of expectations, signaling a likely departure from Old Trafford. Transfer insider Dean Jones discussed why this looming exit might offer hope for United supporters while speaking to GIVEMESPORT.
Under Erik ten Hag’s management, the team’s form has faltered compared to their Carabao Cup-winning season in 2022/23, leading to increased reliance on Martial, who has featured in 19 matches.
United’s historical transfer dealings have left room for improvement, and a squad reshuffle is anticipated in 2024. Martial, now 28, seems destined for an exit, especially with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s substantial investment set to be confirmed.
Amid high expectations surrounding his Premier League debut, Martial’s rise at Old Trafford began with a goal against Liverpool in 2015, marking him as the most expensive teenager at £36 million. Despite earning £250,000 weekly, his career trajectory has dimmed. While his peak season in 2019/20 under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer saw him score 17 goals and provide seven assists, subsequent seasons showed a decline, with only four goals and six assists.
Journalist Ben Jacobs questions Martial’s suitability for United’s standards due to his inconsistency, necessitating the club to re-enter the market after eight years. The arrival of Rasmus Hojlund for a hefty £72 million was intended to address their long-term striker needs, but Jones highlighted to GIVEMESPORT that the Danish player urgently requires support.
Jones revealed that despite earlier expectations of Martial staying past the winter transfer window, the task of finding a buyer for the French international might pose challenges. However, Jones sees United’s decision to part ways with Martial as a sign of optimism, indicating that Ten Hag won’t tolerate inconsistency. Jones expressed:
“I was told a month ago that we should expect Martial to stay in January and beyond. But at least there’s hope for Man United that this inconsistency will not be tolerated anymore… He’s been a big part in the lack of faith that you have in this Man United team, and you have to cut ties with players like that in order to move on to a more positive era.”