Anthony Martial - The Forgotten Man?

Introduction:
Anthony Martial, the enigmatic French forward, has found himself on the fringes of Manchester United's squad in recent seasons. Once touted as the heir apparent to Wayne Rooney, Martial's career at Old Trafford has taken a somewhat unexpected turn. In this article, we delve into the reasons behind Martial's decline and explore whether he has a future at the club.
A Tale of Unfulfilled Potential:
Anthony Martial arrived at Manchester United from AS Monaco in 2015 with a reputation as one of the most exciting young talents in Europe. Blessed with lightning pace, dazzling skills, and an eye for goal, he quickly became a fan favorite. However, despite flashes of brilliance, Martial has struggled to maintain consistency throughout his time at the club.
Injury Woes and Tactical Changes:
Injuries have played a significant role in Martial's setbacks. In the 2016/17 season, he suffered a knee injury that kept him out for several months. Since then, he has endured a string of niggling injuries that have hampered his progress. Additionally, Martial has often been played out of position, which has affected his rhythm and confidence.
Competition for Places:
The arrival of Marcus Rashford, Mason Greenwood, and Jadon Sancho has intensified competition for places in United's attack. These players have all shown themselves to be capable of producing moments of magic, making it difficult for Martial to command a regular starting spot.
Lack of Self-Belief:
Some critics believe that Martial's lack of self-belief has contributed to his decline. He has often appeared timid and unassertive on the pitch, which has led to questioning his mentality. Whether this is a genuine issue or merely a result of the pressure he faces remains a matter of debate.
A Glimmer of Hope:
Despite the challenges he has faced, Martial remains a talented player. He has shown glimpses of his old self in recent months, scoring important goals and displaying moments of brilliance. With the appointment of Erik ten Hag as manager, Martial could be given a fresh start and a chance to revive his United career.
Call to Action:
Only time will tell whether Anthony Martial can rediscover his best form and become a key player for Manchester United once again. However, one thing is for sure: the club and its fans should not give up on him just yet. Martial possesses the talent and potential to be a difference-maker, and with the right support, he could still fulfill his promise at Old Trafford.