“We Need Martial”: Man Utd Manager

Anthony Martial has been the subject of a lot of criticism this season due to his erratic form, but Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho values the Frenchman. He also wishes to extend the forward’s current contract, which as of now runs till 2019.

According to RMC, who first broke the news that Martial had rejected a new contract at Manchester United, the former AS Monaco forward has been promised to be deployed in a more central role from next season. Usually used as a left forward, Martial has made only 26 appearances this season, scoring 12 goals and notching 7 assists so far.

Mourinho has apparently also specified that he sees Martial, Marcus Rashford and Romelu Lukaku as the future of United’s attack, and is also willing to chop and cut and see who will suit the role of a center-forward the most. Sometimes overtly critical of the younger players, the Portuguese manager, however, recognises Martial’s immense potential and wants to make the most of it.

Lukaku’s sensational form in front of goal has seen Martial’s role restricted largely to the bench but the Belgian is not to be solely blamed for creating this situation. The 22-year-old former Golden Boy has been inconsistent with his performances and always looks like he is playing a notch or two lower than his actual abilities.

However, if he does decide to leave, he will have no shortage of suitors. The likes of Bayern Munich, Juventus and Chelsea have already lined up offers for him and it will be interesting to see where he will be the next season. Keep watching this space for more news on the same.