Martial confirms Man Utd exit after nine-year stay at Old Trafford

Anthony Martial confirmed his nine-year stay with Manchester United will come to an end when his contract expires in June.

The France forward announced on Monday that he will not be playing for the Red Devils next season, though the news was expected after an injury-hit spell in Manchester.

Martial scored 90 goals across his United career but had to deal with multiple injury setbacks in recent seasons – last appearing in the home defeat to Bournemouth in December.

The 28-year-old took to Instagram to confirm the decision as Martial joins Raphael Varane in leaving Erik ten Hag’s side ahead of the 2024-25 campaign.

“It’s with great emotion that I write to you today to say goodbye,” the former Monaco attacker wrote on social media as he prepares to leave when his contract expires at the end of June.

“After nine incredible years at the club, the time has come for me to turn a new page in my career. Since I arrived in 2015, I have had the immense honour of wearing this shirt and playing in front of you, the best supporters in the world!

“You have been an unwavering support, through the good times and the difficult. Your passion and loyalty have been a constant source of motivation for me.

“I’d like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything you’ve done for me. Your songs, your encouragement and your love for the club are memories that will remain engraved in my heart forever.

“I would also like to express my gratitude to all my team-mates, technical staff and all the members of the club I have met during my nine years here. I am proud to have been able to share these experiences with you.”

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A post shared by Anthony Martial (@martial_9)

Martial signed a new five-year deal in 2019, with an option of an additional year held by United, who were not expected after the forward’s injury troubles.

He has not scored more than 10 goals in a season since the 2019-20 campaign, and this season managed just two goals after being limited to only five starts across all competitions.

“Manchester United will always be in my heart,” his post continued. “This club has left its mark on my career and offered me an incredible opportunity to play in front of you.

“I’m leaving to take on new challenges, I’ll always be a Red Devil and I’ll continue to follow the club’s results with passion.”