Martial has ‘disrespected’ Man United fans after Sky update today – pundit
Noel Whelan has slammed Anthony Martial after he allegedly refused to be part of the Man United squad to face Aston Villa.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 25-year-old has shown “disrespect” for the club, its supporters, and his teammates.
Man United boss Ralf Rangnick claimed the French striker “didn’t want to be in the squad” after the Red Devils named just eight substitutes for Saturday’s (15 January) 2-2 draw – an allegation Martial denies.
As quoted by Sky Sports today (18 January), the German offered no explanation for Saturday’s events but insisted the matter is “resolved” after a “personal conversation”.
Whelan suggested news of the conflict will be “horrible to hear” for Man United fans.
“If he has turned down the opportunity to be on the bench and part of the team, then that’s not healthy,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“You should never refuse to play for someone who is paying you massive wages, at the end of the day. I don’t care if you’ve got a move on the cards or something in the pipeline.
“It’s disappointing and horrible to hear for the Man United fans, I’m sure. It shows disrespect for those supporters, the club, and his teammates. He should be there, fighting alongside them.
“It’s about character. I hope it’s all just rumours. If he has shown that sort of petulance then he’s really let himself down.”
The France international has been public with his desire to depart Man United.
According to Fabrizio Romano (17 January), Martial is not interested in staying in England – with Barcelona, Sevilla, and Juventus all possible destinations.
In other news, Tottenham insider fears Antonio Conte will quit and “go straight to Man United”.