5 players who should move before the transfer deadline
As the transfer deadline looms, here are five players who could benefit from a change of scenery ahead of the new campaign.
The transfer window is generally packed with speculation and rumors of players moving between clubs, and this summer has been no different. Some may want to move for reasons to do with their family, others may want more recognition and some simply want to leave for more playing time or a bigger role. These five players each have their reasons for wanting to depart, but they could all benefit from wearing a new uniform.
Anthony Martial
Martial’s reason for potentially departing Old Trafford largely lies with one person: Jose Mourinho. Mourinho’s defensive style doesn’t seem to suit Martial, and his impact on the team has diminished as a result. In his first season at United, Martial appeared in 31 Premier League games and scored 11 times, leading the team. He was a key piece to a team that won the FA Cup and qualified for the Europa League under Louis van Gaal.
The following two seasons, both under Mourinho, haven’t been as positive for the French winger. Martial appeared in 25 games and scored four goals in 2016-17, both figures declining from the previous year. In 2017-18, Martial appeared in more games (30) and scored more goals (nine), but apparently yearns for a bigger role.
According to his agent, who spoke with RMC Sport, Martial expressed a desire to leave in January due to United’s signing of Alexis Sanchez. Martial reportedly felt that his role within the squad would diminish upon Alexis’ arrival.
Mourinho offered a dismissive response to the rumors surrounding Martial’s exit, explaining in an interview with Goal’s Sacha Pisani that “you don’t get always in life what you want.”
A move to a club with a more attack-minded philosophy would likely benefit Martial. A lethal finisher with the ability to dribble and cut inside from the wing, Martial could be a prolific scorer at a club that better suits his talent.
Martial has been linked to both Chelsea and Tottenham, both teams with managers (Maurizio Sarri and Mauricio Pochettino) whose philosophies are more in line with his skill set.