Former Liverpool Star: Can’t Believe Martial Only Left This Summer – He Is a Symbol of Manchester United’s Decline

In June this summer, French forward Anthony Martial’s contract with Manchester United expired, making him a free agent. However, throughout the summer transfer window, there were very few teams interested in signing Martial. It was only recently that Martial finally found a new club, joining Greek Super League side AEK Athens. Martial’s ability to find a new club largely stemmed from his willingness to take a significant pay cut; his annual salary at AEK Athens is around 3.5 million euros, whereas his weekly wage at Manchester United previously was as high as 250,000 pounds.

Regarding Martial’s move to AEK Athens, former Liverpool star Graeme Souness said in an interview with British media: “Yes, I noticed that Martial has found a new club. Without a doubt, Martial is a player of considerable talent; he has everything it takes to become a top star, but he did not become a great player. On the pitch, he did not have the right mentality, nor did he work hard enough. It is clear that Martial did not fulfill his potential; he could not adapt to playing for Manchester United.”

Souness also stated: “Four years ago, I felt that Martial should have left because, at that time, I thought Martial had reached a point where he needed to prove himself, otherwise he would inevitably be shown the door. Surprisingly, Martial stayed until his contract expired this summer before leaving, which is unbelievable. Over the nine seasons he spent at Manchester United, Martial was undoubtedly a symbol of Manchester United’s decline. Since Sir Alex Ferguson left, Manchester United has never found the right direction.”

As Souness pointed out, since Sir Alex Ferguson left Manchester United, the club has continuously tried to sign big-name stars and has frequently changed managers, yet they have never reached their former heights. In contrast, during these years of Manchester United’s decline, Liverpool, under Jürgen Klopp, has won numerous honors, including the Premier League title and the Champions League. In the third round of this season’s Premier League, Manchester United suffered a 0-3 defeat to Liverpool. On January 4, 2025, Manchester United will travel to Anfield to face Liverpool again.