In Sunday’s match against Arsenal, Anthony Martial was given a starting role for Manchester United, further strengthening the idea that his tenure at Old Trafford is nearing its end.
Despite starting for the second game in a row, the Frenchman’s impact was minimal and he was replaced just after the hour mark. On the pitch he looked like he was having a leisurely Sunday stroll at the Emirates Stadium, in stark contrast to the intensity of the match which saw United ultimately succumb to a 2-1 defeat to the Gunners.
Martial’s performances are devoid of significant scoring opportunities, and it is clear that at this point in his career he is no match for the lethal attacker that Erik ten Hag’s side must challenge for major recognition. Having spent nine seasons at Old Trafford, a significant part of the fan base seems to have tired from the wait for the attacker subject to injuries to offer consistent performances.
During the game, numerous supporters of the Red Devils took on Twitter to express their disappointment for Martial’s little brilliant display, describing it as “a shadow of his former self”, “seeming a novice of football” and “apparently devoid of any impact “.
On the contrary, Manchester United fans seemed more affected by Rasmus Hojlund, who made his debut at the club replacing Martial. The 20 -year -old Danish striker showed his physical ability and, although he did not present significant score opportunities, he managed to assume a central role in the Man United attack.
Dramatic conclusion to the Emirates, the match at the Emirates stadium provided a dramatic plot. After Arsenal initially dominated the procedure, Marcus Rashford unexpectedly broke the deadly point against the game of the game in the 27th minute. However, the home side reacted quickly and Martin Odegaard equalized for Arsenal just 100 seconds later.
The second half saw some controversial VAR decisions, with the penalty initially awarded against Arsenal for a foul by Aaron Wan-Bissaka on Kai Havertz ultimately being overturned. To add insult to drama, a late Alejandro Garnacho goal for United was disallowed due to an offside decision.
Midway through stoppage time, Declan Rice scored his first goal for Arsenal and Gabriel Jesus added a third, leaving Manchester United rueing a defeat that had looked like a victory moments before.
