Anthony Martial completes unexpected transfer after leaving Manchester United as free agent

Anthony Martial, the former Manchester United forward, has officially joined Greek side AEK Athens on a free transfer, a few months after leaving United at the end of his contract. Martial, now 28, departed Manchester in June 2024 following an injury-plagued nine-year spell, and his move to AEK Athens marks a fresh chapter in his career after spending several months as a free agent.

During his time at Manchester United, Martial demonstrated his potential but was often sidelined by various injury issues, which prevented him from fully establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s top talents. Despite these setbacks, Martial still managed to score 90 goals for the club, including a memorable debut strike against Liverpool after his transfer from AS Monaco in 2015. His career at Old Trafford began with great promise, as the Frenchman was seen as one of Europe’s brightest young talents. However, recurring fitness problems limited his impact and ultimately stalled his progress.

In December 2023, Martial made what would be his final appearance for Manchester United, several months before his departure was officially confirmed. By the time his contract expired in June 2024, Martial had endured another season marred by injuries, and it became clear that he would be moving on from the club. Speculation about his future grew over the summer, but clubs appeared hesitant to make a move for him due to his injury record.

Despite the concerns, AEK Athens decided to take a chance on the French forward, bringing him in to bolster their squad as they sit atop the Super League Greece. The signing provides Martial with an opportunity to relaunch his career in a new league and in a competitive environment. AEK Athens, one of the biggest clubs in Greece, are aiming for continued success both domestically and in European competitions. Martial’s experience at the highest level, including his stints in the Premier League and international football, will likely be a valuable asset for the team.

Comparisons have been made between Martial’s situation and that of former Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea, who also left the club on a free transfer in 2023. De Gea remained without a club for a full year before securing his next move. However, Martial avoided a similar fate by signing with AEK Athens within a few months of his exit from United, ensuring he will have a team to play for this season.

Martial’s time at Manchester United, while ultimately viewed as one of unfulfilled potential, was not without its high points. His debut season, in particular, stood out as a highlight, and he enjoyed several spells of excellent form throughout his United career. However, consistency was always an issue, and his inability to stay fit for prolonged periods hindered his ability to make a sustained impact.

After his departure from United was confirmed, Martial penned an emotional farewell message to the club’s supporters via social media. In his heartfelt post, he expressed his gratitude to the fans, teammates, coaching staff, and everyone he had encountered during his time at Old Trafford. Martial noted the immense pride he felt wearing the famous red shirt and acknowledged the unwavering support he received from the club’s supporters, even during difficult times. He reflected on the memories created during his nine years at Manchester United and promised to always remain a “Red Devil” at heart.

“Dear Manchester United fans,” Martial wrote, “It’s with great emotion that I write to you today to say goodbye. 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.”

Martial continued by thanking his teammates and the club’s staff members, expressing his pride in sharing experiences with them throughout his time at United. He emphasized how special the club would always be to him, stating that Manchester United had left an indelible mark on his career and that he would continue to follow their progress with great enthusiasm.

In closing, Martial expressed his deep appreciation for everything the club and its fans had done for him, leaving the door open for a future connection with the team and its supporters.

While Martial’s time at Manchester United may not have unfolded as many had hoped, his move to AEK Athens provides him with a new challenge and the chance to rediscover the form that once made him one of the most exciting prospects in European football. The Greek Super League could offer him a fresh start in an environment where he can rebuild his confidence and make a meaningful contribution on the pitch.

For AEK Athens, Martial’s signing is a gamble, given his injury history, but it could pay off if the Frenchman can stay fit and rediscover his best form. Should he manage to do so, he could become a key figure for the Greek club as they aim to maintain their position at the top of the league and make an impact in European competitions. Both Martial and AEK Athens will be hopeful that this new chapter will be a positive one for the talented forward.