One goal in 20 games: former United striker released by club after shocking spell

Former Manchester United striker Anthony Martial remains without a club, with Foot Mercato reporting that his wage expectations are complicating his search for a new employer.

The French outlet reports that Martial, now 30, is enduring a particularly difficult period in the transfer market following spells in Greece and Mexico.

Struggles after United departure

The former United man had a short stint with AEK Athens before moving on to Monterrey Rayados in Mexico.

His time with Rayados can only be described as unsuccessful, scoring only one goal across 20 appearances for the club. Martial’s salary attracted criticism during that spell, particularly when considered alongside his limited output on the pitch.

Martial and Rayados ended his contract by mutual agreement at the beginning of the summer, leaving him available on a free transfer.

Foot Mercato claims that the French international’s recent difficulties form part of a wider sporting decline dating back to 2020.

This recent record has made finding his next club more complicated as the end of the summer transfer window approaches.

Ligue 1 ambition encounters resistance

Despite those setbacks, Martial reportedly has a clear preference for returning to Ligue 1 in an attempt to revive his career.

The player’s representatives have circulated his name to several sporting directors across France.

OGC Nice had not initially closed the door on a possible move in June, but that potential route has since cooled considerably.

No French club has submitted a concrete proposal for Martial at this stage. His salary demands are said to be the principal obstacle, with prospective clubs reportedly viewing them as being out of proportion given his declining recent statistics.

Alternative destinations may be required

Martial continues to maintain his fitness while waiting for a suitable opportunity to emerge. However, the current impasse could force the former fan favourite to consider destinations outside Europe. Martial will also need to lower his financial expectations if he is to improve his chances of securing a new club.

A return to France, or elsewhere in Europe, is therefore described by Foot Mercato as increasingly unlikely unless a club decides to make a late move before the market closes.

For now, the report indicates that Martial’s future remains unresolved. His situation closely mirrors that of his compatriot and former team-mate Paul Pogba, who is also without club after being released by Monaco.

Final Thoughts

• Martial is reportedly without a club.
• He scored once in 20 appearances for Mexican side Rayados.
• His desire is to reboot his career in France, but no French club has made a concrete offer.
• Salary demands are reportedly a major obstacle.