According to the Express, Ole-Gunnar Solskjaer is close to losing his patience in Anthony Martial. The Norwegian head coach is reportedly frustrated with his inconsistent performances in front of goal. And it is believed that a summer exit from Old Trafford could be on the cards, although co-owner Joe Glazer could strongly oppose his sale.
In this article, we will discuss as to whether or not it would be a good idea offloading Martial in the summer transfer window.
Decoding Martial’s performances this season
At the start of the season, it was perceived that Martial is set to enjoy a more prominent role in the United first-team alongside Marcus Rashford, especially with the club failing to sign any replacement for the departing Romelu Lukaku. And that he did, having already started 18 games for the Red Devils this season.
The Frenchman has scored eight goals so far. But, only one of those goals has come in this calendar year, in the massive 4-0 win over Norwich City. Especially in recent weeks, Martial has looked bereft without the support of Rashford. He hasn’t been able to impose his pace and flair while his positioning has been quite poor.
Not to mention, the ex-AS Monaco star barely looked interested in meeting the crosses from the wider areas. And this lack of attentiveness in the final third has seen Man United struggle.
Should United offload Martial in the summer?
Solskjaer’s experiment and philosophy of building his team around young players have looked promising, at times. But, the lack of a leading figure in the attack has always bogged them down, especially after the departure of Lukaku. And given Martial’s performances this season, it is fair to say that the Frenchman is not exactly ready to lead the line for the Red Devils next season.
Therefore, it would perhaps be wiser for the club to offload Martial in the summer. His departure could allow them to create space for a new signing, though it is equally essential for them to find the right replacement.
One player, Manchester United should pursue in the summer is Lautaro Martinez. The Argentine ace has done wonders at Inter Milan alongside ex-United star Lukaku, and he could be an asset at Old Trafford.
Timo Werner is also an exciting candidate, having been regarded as the best German striker of the modern generation. Hence, Martial’s departure should depend on how United fare in the transfer market, knowing a bad replacement could once again derail their progress.
