MARTIAL: MY FAMILY FIRST – NOT MAN U
ANTHONY MARTIAL says he’ll be back in Manchester today – after telling Jose Mourinho his family will always come before United.
Mourinho has been at loggerheads with the France forward who had failed to return to pre-season training, having left United’s US tour early to attend the birth of his son Swan.
After his side ended their US tour with a 2-1 win in Miami over Real Madrid on Tuesday night, Mourinho was asked if Martial would be leaving.
And the Reds boss – unhappy Martial did not rejoin the squad on tour or at least return to United’s training complex to build up fitness ahead of the new season – initially dodged that question.
But pressed on whether Martial would still be part of his squad after returning to Manchester, Mourinho would only say: “I don’t know.”
United were ready to fine the AWOL star £180,000 but Martial posted a message on social media indicating he’ll return to Manchester today and telling Mourinho his family are his priority.
Martial said: “Thank you for all your posts. My little Swan is fine, for the mom it was harder but thanks to God she’s better now.
“Sorry but my family will always come first ... back tomorrow in Manchester.”
Mourinho wants to offload Martial after coming to the conclusion the 22-year-old is not mentally strong enough to play under him, with United wanting £70million.
But they are struggling to sign a replacement before the Premier League transfer window closes on August 9.
The Inter Milan and Croatia star Ivan Perisic has emerged as Mourinho’s top target.