Five reasons why Anthony Martial should leave Manchester United

The striker is edging close the exit door after links with other clubs.

Anthony Martial has come under the scanner in recent times after struggling for game-time at Manchester United. The 25-year-old was recently part of the France team that won the UEFA Nations League title. But, he has not featured extensively at club level. With the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Edinson Cavani available, Martial has fallen down in the pecking order amongst the attackers. While he is spending increasing time on the bench at United, other clubs are beginning to take notice.

Reports during the summer transfer window of 2021 suggested that Manchester United would consider selling the Frenchman for the right price. The Red Devils are reportedly quoting £40m for the striker, who has been sidelined at the club.

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Anthony Martial must consider other opportunities while his future remains uncertain at Manchester United. He must find more game-time to make a strong claim for a place in the France squad for the World Cup. With fewer opportunities in the offing, here are five reasons why Martial should leave Manchester United:

5. Arrival of new attacking recruits

Anthony Martial went under the radar after the arrival of new signings in the summer transfer window. Jadon Sancho’s arrival from Borussia Dortmund for €85m pushed Martial further away from a starting place in the lineup. Later on, the iconic return of Cristiano Ronaldo buried any hopes of the Frenchman starting regularly for Manchester United.

His future at the club first came into question when the outfit decided to bring in Edinson Cavani last season and chose to retain his services this year. With more recruitment in attacking positions, the club have ample options going forward. This has put Martial under considerable pressure to perform and find a place in the lineup. 

4. Falling down the pecking order

Anthony Martial had a great time for Manchester United during the 2019/20 season in the Premier League. He managed 17 goals and provided seven assists in 32 league games. Overall, Martial scored 23 goals and provided 12 assists for the outfit. However, the 25-year-old could not replicate his performances in the following campaign and saw Cavani replace him as a starter in the lineup. 

Martial started from the left wing on a few occasions, a position he first took up upon arriving at Old Trafford. However, with Marcus Rashford occupying that position and Mason Greenwood flourishing down the right, Martial lost his starting place. Furthermore, Sancho can play on either wing and is likely to shift to the right flank as things progress. Greenwood is the ideal substitute or starter depending on the situation. The centre-forward position already has Ronaldo and Cavani vying for a starting position. Amidst all of this, Martial may not get enough game-time to prove his capabilities.

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3. Criticism for a lack of workrate

Manchester United’s draw with Southampton in August made the fans question Anthony Martial’s commitment. The striker started the game, but could not make much of an impact on proceedings. He was subbed off at the hour mark. The glaring issue with Martial during that game was a lack of effort without the ball. 

The lack of movement inside the box was frustrating to see from Martial. There was a consensus across the board that he is heading towards the exit door after a performance like that. Previously, players like Alexis Sanchez and Romelu Lukaku have been sold due to a lack of effort, an aspect that manager Ole GunnarSolskjaer is very particular about and demands from his players.

2. Wealth of young talent coming through

Manchester United’s academy has intensified its recruitment and development of young talents in recent years. The club traditionally give youth players enough opportunities to showcase their talent. Players like Marcus Rashford, Jesse Lingard, Mason Greenwood among others have all come through the ranks from the academy.

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Moving forward, players like Shola Shoretire, Anthony Elanga and more are looking to break into the senior setup. In that scenario, there will be a few players who will be replaced in order to incorporate the youngsters. Although Martial is still 25-years-old and has a bright future, he seems the most likely player to make way. 

1. Interesting opportunities away from Manchester United

Newcastle United have emerged as an interested party after their landmark takeover, which makes them the richest club in the world. The Magpies are looking to bolster their squad with several new talents and Martial is reportedly one of them. The upcoming January transfer window will be the perfect opportunity for the Premier League outfit to make a move for the Frenchman. United will be willing sellers if their valuation is met, which will not be a problem for Newcastle’s new wealthy owners.

Several reports from England also suggest that Tottenham Hotspur are interested in Martial, in a scenario when Harry Kane leaves the club. A few reports from Spain also indicate that FC Barcelona are considering Martial as one of the players to continue their re-build of the squad. All these clubs could provide the perfect opportunity for the forward to re-ignite his career and make a mark again. There is no doubt in the quality Martial possesses, but a change of scenery could be the most vital factor in the rejuvenation of his career.

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