Manchester United stars Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes have paid tribute to Anthony Martial after the French forward confirmed his departure from Old Trafford.
Martial, whose contract expires soon, will end his nine-year stint with the club after joining from Monaco in 2015. The 28-year-old scored 90-goals in 317 appearances, with his best season in 2019/20 when he netted 23-times in 48 outings.
Injuries disrupted Martial’s final season, with his last appearance in December before undergoing groin surgery. His final match was a 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth.
Arriving with significant expectations as the world’s most expensive teenager, Martial never truly achieved star status but made a lasting impact on his teammates.
Reacting to Martial’s Instagram announcement, Bruno Fernandes commented: “I’m going to miss link up with you toto,” accompanied by a red heart emoji. Rashford also posted a heart emoji, adding: “So many memories together. Stay blessed brother.”
Martial delivered an emotional farewell message to United’s fans ahead of his summer move. It read:
“Dear Manchester United fans,
It’s with great emotion that I write to you today to say goodbye. After nine incredible years at the club, 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 9 years here. I am proud to have been able to share these experiences with you.
Manchester United will always be in my heart. 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.
Thank you again for everything, and see you soon. With all my affection, Anthony Martial”
Martial’s departure marks the end of an era at Manchester United, thereby leaving behind memories cherished by fans and teammates alike. This transition signifies a significant shift in the team’s dynamics. Prompting reflection on the contributions and impact Martial had during his time with the club.
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