Anthony Martial thinks it's "normal" that Wayne Rooney didn't know him
Manchester United's new signing Anthony Martial may have the world at his feet, but admits “it’s normal” for Wayne Rooney to not know who he is, as stated in his media conference for France's friendly.
However, the 19-year old forward has vowed to prove his worth at Old Trafford. The 19-year-old forward completed a move to Old Trafford on deadline day after joining from Monaco in a deal that could eventually be worth up to €80 million (£59m).
When reports of United's interest emerged on Sunday, captain Rooney turned to Martial’s fellow Frenchman Morgan Schneiderlin in an attempt to learn about the prospective signing. But Martial, who has only played 72 senior games for Lyon and Monaco and is yet to win his first international cap, said he is not offended if the England captain was unaware of him.
Martial not worried about his high price tag
“It's normal that he [Rooney] does not know me,” Martial told reporters.
“I have not played in Ligue 1 a lot and this is the first time I'm in the France team. But I'm happy to go there. He is a great player and I will progress a lot with him.”
“I don’t know if I'm worth €80 million. I do not think about the amounts. The amount is between the two clubs. I do not put myself under particular pressure.
Even at £36m, Martial has become United's most expensive striker ever and, at £58m, he would become the second-costliest signing in Premier League history. The youngster admitted the fee is incredible but said he will try not to be distracted by it, adding
“Sure it's crazy enough for a player of my age. This is the football market and I can not help it, it's between the two clubs. I try to ignore and concentrate only on the field.”
Morgan Schneiderlin advised Martial to join United
The 19-year-old has also held talks with van Gaal about his preferred role in attack, but says has been given no guarantees by United manager that he will be playing as a striker.
“He asked me what position I prefer playing. I replied in the middle but he told me I could play in several positions,” said the forward.
“I’m available to the coach and to give the best in any position.”
Martial also insists that he has not damaged his chances of being in the France squad for next summer’s European Championship. Speaking in Clairefontaine, where he is a member of the France squad preparing for Friday’s friendly against Portugal, he expresses hope to be a part of France squad for Euro 2016.
“I have greater visibility and if I play like I know to do, there is no reason why it goes wrong,” said the striker.
“The Euros? I hope I can go. It's up to me to perform well. Many young players have already gone to large clubs. It went well for some, less for others. It is a great challenge for me and I'm ready.
“I have received advice from Morgan Schneiderlin who told me that it was a very good club. It was well discussed and it will help me a lot there. €80 million? Nobody told me about the price. They [France team-mates] just congratulated me for the signing and told me not to lose my head.”