Anthony Martial has revealed how he snubbed offers from Barcelona to join Sevilla, stating the La Liga side was his priority.
Making his La Liga debut this past weekend, Anthony Martial would have breathed a sigh of relief after escaping an uncertain time at Manchester United. He played just 11 times for the Red Devils this term across all competitions, scoring once.
The French forward was left frustrated with the lack of opportunities at Old Trafford and sought a move away from the club. Manchester United were urged to move him on in the January window and trim their forward line. There were plenty of clubs keen on the attacker, but Martial had his plans set.
He was keen on moving to Spain and had identified Sevilla as his ideal destination. Martial eventually got his move to the La Liga giants on a loan deal until the end of the season. Los Nervionenses do not have a buy option, although it could be discussed if they are interested at the end of the season.
Juventus were among the teams interested in the Frenchman, along with Barcelona. But Martial had his heart set on Sevilla. There were other teams with potentially better offers than the Spanish side, but the forward has now revealed that the move that transpired was the best for himself and his family.
Martial revealed that Juventus and Barcelona tried to sign him in January but stated that he had made up his mind about signing for Sevilla. In an interview with Diario de Sevilla, as quoted by the Daily Mail, he said: “Yes, it’s true. Juventus tried to sign me. ‘I talked to my agent and told him that I preferred to go to Sevilla. It was the best option for my family and me.
“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.”
Martial also revealed he took a pay cut to join the Spanish club, suggesting there was a good level of understanding between the player and the club. “Both Sevilla and I have made an effort so that I could come,” the Frenchman revealed. “I have less salary, but I also know that paying my salary would be an effort for the club. So we’ve both made an effort. But I know that this effort will be good for both parties.”
Despite securing his desired move, Martial had a debut to forget in Sevilla colours. The Manchester United loanee failed to make much of an impact as the La Liga outfit were held to a goalless draw by Osasuna. He will need to up his game and start delivering on the potential he had shown when he burst onto the scene at Monaco.