Former Manchester United striker Anthony Martial was reportedly prevented from leaving Old Trafford by co-owner Joel Glazer. Martial, who left the club in 2024, has now been released by his most recent side, Monterrey, making him a free agent.
Glazer's Influence Blocked Martial's Exit
Martial's current situation is far removed from the excitement that surrounded his arrival at United. His early potential was so high that Glazer considered him the club's answer to Brazilian legend Pele. Sources claim Martial quickly became 'Joel's favourite player,' and Glazer vetoed the striker's departure between 2017 and 2020.
Martial's Early Success at United
United signed Martial from Monaco for £36 million in 2015. He scored 17 goals under Louis van Gaal, helping the club win the FA Cup. He reached double figures for goals in four of his first five seasons, becoming an integral part of the frontline.
Despite this, former manager Jose Mourinho reportedly tried to offload Martial before being sacked in December 2018. Glazer is believed to have blocked that sale. In January 2019, Martial signed a new contract until June 2024, with an option for another year. Glazer again intervened in 2020 to keep Martial at the club during Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's tenure.
Decline and Departure
Glazer's confidence proved misplaced. Martial joined Sevilla on loan in 2022 after a disappointing final chapter at United, making only 12 appearances for the La Liga side. He permanently left Old Trafford in September 2024, with 90 goals in 317 appearances, to join Greek side AEK Athens. After one season there, he moved to Liga MX's Monterrey.
Reports suggest Monterrey agreed to terminate the 30-year-old's contract early, despite it running until 2027 with an option for another year. Martial managed one goal and three assists in 20 appearances. His spell was marred by a dislocated shoulder in February and a subsequent fallout after being benched in a 3-2 defeat to Chivas de Guadalajara. He was excluded from training and axed from the squad for the final five matches. Now released, he is seeking a new club.
