Manchester United player turned down Juventus and Barcelona

Anthony Martial’s career at Manchester United was on a downward trajectory for the past season-and-a-half. In the summer transfer window, there were rumours of an exit but the Red Devils were believed to be reluctant to let go of the Frenchman. As a result, the 26-year-old ended up staying at Old Trafford. But after another half-a-season of irregular football, he would ultimately move to Sevilla on loan last month.

Given the competition up top following the addition of Cristiano Ronaldo in the summer, Martial barely featured for Manchester United this season. Hence, it was not a surprise that he sought a move away from Old Trafford last month and got it.

Clubs such as Juventus and Barcelona were rumoured to be interested in signing the Frenchman on loan. But he would join Sevilla instead, where his chances of playing time appear to be higher.

It remains to be seen how the spell in Spain turns out for Martial and whether he is able to rediscover the form that had seen him finish as Manchester United’s top scorer a couple of seasons back.

Manchester United player turned down Juventus and Barcelona

As reported by Diario de Sevilla, when asked about the truth behind Juventus’ attempt to sign him, Martial answered:

"“Yes. It’s true. Juventus tried to sign me. I was talking to my agent and told him that I preferred to go to Sevilla. It was the best option for me and my family.”"

Then when asked about Barcelona, the Manchester United star currently on loan at Sevilla revealed:

"“Yes. FC Barcelona spoke with my agent. But as I said, I spoke to my agent and told him: “My priority is Sevilla”. And when I say something to someone, I don’t change it, I keep my word.”"

Sitting at second in the La Liga points table, Sevilla seem to be a serious candidate in the race for the league title, although Real Madrid are leading right now by 6 points.

Since joining the club, Martial has made one league appearance for Sevilla and the general feeling is that he will get plenty of chances there to prove himself. That could not only help him win a place in the France national team’s squad for the World Cup in Qatar but might even lead to the resurrection of his Manchester United career.