Before Joining Sevilla, Anthony Martial Admits He Rejected Barcelona And Juventus Offers

JAKARTA - Anthony Martial admitted that he had rejected offers from Barcelona and Juventus to join Sevilla in the January transfer market. The French forward has spent seven years at Old Trafford, but he has started to find less regular playing time under interim Manchester United coach Ralf Rangnick.

Martial then decided to leave Manchester United in order to get a new challenge after being rarely played in the first half of the 2021-22 season.

The Red Devils agreed a short-term loan deal with Sevilla for Martial in January 2022, with the 26-year-old turning down offers from Barca and Juve.

Martial has confirmed that the officials of both clubs have contacted his agent, but Sevilla is always his first choice.

"That's true. Juventus tried to sign me," Martial told Diario de Sevilla, as quoted by Goal on Wednesday.

“I was talking to my agent and told him that I would prefer to go to Sevilla. It was the best choice for me and my family. FC Barcelona has also communicated with my agent," he was quoted as saying by ANTARA, Saturday, February 12.

"However, my priority is Sevilla and when I say something to someone I don't change it, I keep my word," he added.

Martial also admitted that he was willing to accept a pay cut to join the Andalusian club until the end of the season. He is more concerned with guaranteeing more playing time than salary.

"Both Sevilla and I have tried to get me to come," Martial said. "I have less salary, but I also know that paying my salary is a club effort. So, we've both been trying."

"For me, it was the right decision because I knew I was going to play and for me, playing is the most important thing."

"Other big clubs tried to convince me, but I preferred to come to Sevilla because I know Sevilla is a very good club. For me, it was the right decision."