The debate over Anthony Martial’s role at Manchester United has taken a new turn as ex-United defender Paul Parker suggested that manager Erik ten Hag should be sacked if he starts Martial over summer signing Rasmus Hojlund in the next game.
Martial, who arrived at Manchester United in 2015 with high expectations and comparisons to Thierry Henry, has faced criticism over the years.
In a recent assessment, Paul Parker criticized both Martial’s attitude and Ten Hag’s potential decision to play him over Hojlund.
Summer signing Rasmus Hojlund, who joined United for £72 million, made his debut during the team’s 3-1 defeat to Arsenal, impressing fans and pundits alike. Parker stated, “If he doesn’t start against Brighton, then all fans will want Erik ten Hag fired, and it would almost be justified.
It wouldn’t make any sense if he started on the bench. Martial shouldn’t even be on the bench. There must be a youth player who is better and can sit on the bench, and Hojlund can be the first striker.
All Manchester United fans are fed up with seeing a player with a lousy attitude, who always sulks and complains, and it’s a blessing that Man Utd finally has an attacker who plays with enthusiasm.”
Parker’s opinion on Martial differs from that of United co-owner Joel Glazer, who has expressed admiration for the forward, even likening him to Pele in the past. Glazer blocked Martial’s exit during Jose Mourinho’s tenure, despite the club’s interest in selling him to fund other transfers.
Martial, now 27, remains at Manchester United, but Ten Hag acknowledges the challenges posed by his fitness issues. Ten Hag commented, “It’s difficult to say because history says differently.
I want him to be because he’s a great player – he definitely has the qualities to play in top football – and when he is fit our team plays better.”
