Anthony Martial’s agent Philippe Lamboley has provided an update on the player’s wishes for the future, and it’s not an update many Manchester United fans will be happy to hear.
It was widely thought Martial would consider his future this summer, especially after missing out on the France World Cup squad. There’s been a frustration with the way things have gone under Jose Mourinho at Old Trafford, and now the player’s agent has revealed a desire to leave.
Asked if Martial has made a decision about he future, the agent told RMC: “After thinking about all the possibilities and scenarios, Anthony wants to leave Manchester United.”
Then asked the reason why, Laboley said: “There are many parameters, for now it’s premature to talk about it. Anthony will speak later to discuss all of this.”
Elaborating further, the agent said: “Manchester United wants to extend Anthony and does not want him to leave but we haven’t found agreement for several months. I think that when Manchester United, which is the most powerful club in the world, it must be remembered, does not find an agreement in eight months of negotiations, it is because they do really want to make him an important player.
“That’s why this decision comes in. It is a well considered decision. However, it is quite obvious and it is very important to remember that he is under contract, that Manchester United will have the last word and that we will respect the decision of the club, he will go to the end of its commitment.”
Martial has a contract at Old Trafford until June 2019, although the club are thought to have the option to extend it by a further season.
The agent explained that if it wasn’t for the support of Manchester United fans, Martial would have asked to leave the club already.
There’s clearly some frustration with the January signing of Alexis Sanchez and what that meant for the Frenchman’s chances in the team: “It is important to remember that this season he scored 11 goals and gave ten assists in five months. He was elected three times players of the month by the fans. Then arrived the transfer window of January. I will not comment on the consequences of this transfer window. Everyone will have his opinion, I think he must resume the course of his career. The time has come.”
Asked if there are any advanced contacts with clubs for the eventual transfer of the Manchester United player, it was made clear interest is expected: “Anthony has the choice, I cannot say anything on the subject at the moment but you think that from the moment a player like Anthony is on the market a lot of clubs are interested. The only thing I can say is that many coaches appreciate his profile and that many clubs want to show their projects to Anthony.”
