“Legend” - Anthony Martial confirms Manchester United exit; De Gea, Rasmus Hojlund, Diogo Dalot and others react
Manchester United striker Anthony Martial has announced his departure from the club. Teammates, past and present, like David de Gea, Rasmus Hojlund and Diogo Dalot, among others, reacted to the same.
Since arriving with much fanfare in the summer of 2015, Martial was touted as one of the most talented young players in the game with a bright future in front of him. However, his near decade-long stint at Old Trafford was largely an underwhelming one due to injuries and poor form.
With his contract expiring this summer, Martial was widely expected to leave. The Frenchman confirmed the same on Monday with a post on Instagram that read:
"It’s with great emotion that I write to you today to say goodbye. After nine incredible years at the club, the time has come for me to turn a new page in my career."
Acknowledging the support of fans and teammates, he continued:
"I'd like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything you've done for me. Your songs, your encouragement and your love for the club are memories that will remain engraved in my heart forever.
"I would also like to express my gratitude to all my teammates, technical staff and all the members of the club I have met during my 9 years here. I am proud to have been able to share these experiences with you."
Admitting that he would be a life-long Red Devil as he seeks a new adventure elsewhere, the 28-year-old concluded:
"Manchester United will always be in my heart. This club has left its mark on my career and offered me an incredible opportunity to play in front of you.
"I'm leaving to take on new challenges, I'll always be a Red Devil, and I'll continue to follow the club's results with passion. Thank you again for everything, and see you soon. With all my affection, Anthony Martial"
While De Gea, former Manchester United goalkeeper, and Dalot responded with heart emojies, Hojlund wrote:
"Legend"
How Anthony Martial fared at Manchester United
Anthony Martial has had the kind of career at Manchester United that promised much but delivered little. The Frenchman did show glimpses of his brilliance, but he struggled for fitness and consistency.
In 317 games across competitions, Martial registered 90 goals and 47 assists. That includes two goals and an assist in 19 games across competitions in what turned out to be his last season at Old Trafford in 2023-24.
Martial won six trophies at the club although the Premier League eluded him. Although United won the FA Cup this season, Martial wasn't in the squad for four of the games and missed the other two due to injury.