Making it clear he wanted to leave Manchester United during the January transfer window to find more game time, Anthony Martial eventually got his wish, as the Frenchman was loaned out to Sevilla.
Not exactly shining in his first game for the La Liga side, the forward might need a bit of time to adapt to his new surroundings, but it’s clear he wants to succeed there, knowing full well that a good spell in Spain could see him get a permanent move either at the same club or elsewhere in the summer.
The 2022 World Cup is of his objectives, as Didier Deschamps has often picked Martial when he’s been in good form, and Sevilla could certainly be the ideal club for him.
At least, that’s what he thought, recently admitting in an interview with Diario de Sevilla that he had other options, including more prestigious ones, but turned them down in favour of his new club.
He said: “It’s true. Juventus tried to sign me. I was talking to my agent and told him I preferred to go to Sevilla. It was the best option for me and my family. FC Barcelona talked to my agent, but as I said, I spoke with my agent and told him: “My priority is Sevilla.” And when I say something to someone, I don’t change it. I keep my word.”
The forward also pointed out the ‘big differences’ between the Spanish club and Manchester United, explaining that Sevilla felt more ‘like a family’ compared to the Old Trafford side.
Furthermore, Martial admitted making ‘an effort’ to leave the Red Devils and allow the La Liga side to afford him: “I have less salary, but I also know that paying my salary is an effort for the club. So we’ve both made an effort, but I know this effort will be good for both parties.”
As for what the future holds: “At the moment, we are only here for four months. I have a contract with Manchester United (until 2024), but as I said before, in football, you never know.”
