Anthony Martial has confirmed that he will leave Manchester United this summer.
It is news that won’t shock anyone as we knew for some time that the Frenchman would leave the club at the end of the season as his contract expires.
An open letter to supporters on social media on Monday evening read: “Dear Manchester United fans, 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.
“Since I arrived in 2015, I have had the immense honour of wearing this shirt and playing in front of you, the best supporters in the world! You have been an unwavering support, through the good times and the difficult. Your passion and loyalty have been a constant source of motivation for me.
“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 team-mates, 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.
“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.”
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There was never a suggestion that an extension would be agreed. Martial has been injured for most of the season and he was not in the squad for Saturday’s FA Cup triumph.
Martial’s final appearance for United came on December 9 when he played up front against Bournemouth in a 3-0 defeat, being taken off in the 56th minute.
He signed for United as a 19-year-old and showed early signs that we had a world-beater on our hands. Unfortunately, Martial didn’t develop into that player and his career has been plagued by injuries.
Martial scored on his debut with a brilliant solo goal against Liverpool – one of 17 goals in all competitions that season.
Where Martial will move to next remains to be seen, though a return to France could be on the agenda.
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