Introduction

Graeme Souness, the former Liverpool captain and pundit, has drawn attention to the decline of Manchester United by reflecting on the career of Anthony Martial, who spent nine turbulent years at the club before departing as a free agent this past June.

Martial's Arrival and Journey at Manchester United

Martial joined Manchester United in 2015 from AS Monaco as a promising teenager, with an initial transfer fee of £36 million that could have risen to £57.6 million based on performance incentives. During his tenure, he scored 90 goals in 317 appearances. However, his inconsistency and inability to adapt to the high-pressure environment of a club like United were significant factors in his eventual exit.

Transfer and Departure

After a summer where interest from other major European clubs was minimal, Martial ultimately signed with AEK Athens. Earning £250,000 a week during his final years at United, Souness argues that Martial's story encapsulates the mismanagement issues at the club since the departure of legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

Souness's Critique

“In his nine seasons at Manchester United, no player better captured the club’s malaise. He is the best example of where they have gone wrong,” Souness expressed in an article for the Daily Mail. He further remarked that four years ago, he felt this would be Martial's final chance to prove himself. It is surprising, he insists, that it has taken until this summer for Martial to leave.

Souness acknowledges Martial's talent and training abilities but criticizes his mentality on the pitch. “It was as plain as the nose on your face that he wasn't a Manchester United player, and that was obvious after a couple of seasons,” he lamented. “He just could not deal with playing for a big club like United, where every game is a must-win.”

Martial's Farewell and Future

Despite Souness’s harsh verdict, Martial wrote a heartfelt farewell letter to United fans, expressing his gratitude for the time spent with the club and vowing to cherish the memories. He has insisted he is excited about this new chapter in Greece, stating, “I am very happy. AEK is an opportunity for me, and I will give my best to achieve things, win trophies, and bring joy to the world of the team.”

Conclusion

Martial's journey from a highly-rated prospect to a player who struggled under the weight of expectations serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by athletes looking to perform at the highest levels. As Manchester United continues to grapple with its identity and results, the repercussions of player development and management remain at the forefront of discussions among fans and pundits alike.