Why did Flamengo reject chance to sign Anthony Martial?

Brazilian club Flamengo has decided to walk away from a deal for former Manchester United star Anthony Martial. The French striker is still without a club after leaving England. Martial spent nearly a decade with the former EPL champions before form and fitness issues ended his stint with the club. 

There were reports that Brazilian club Flamengo were interested in roping in the 28-year-old. The club now has moved away from the deal due to the high wage demands put forward by Anthony Martial. It is also learned that the French star was looking for a three-year-deal which Flamengo weren’t too keen on. 

Anthony Martial also was approached by Greek side AEK Athens. The team had made provisions for Martial to be made their best paid player ever. The deal would have seen Martial become a top earner at the club going past the 2.1 million euros per year earned by Erik Lamela. 

Also read: Zinedine Zidane reveals why he rejected chance to manage Manchester United

Anthony Martial’s career faces new setback

Manchester United decided to end their relationship with Anthony Martial at the end of last season. The former striker put out an emotional statement regarding his time at the club. 

Once his stint in England ended, Martial’s agent spoke to Sky Sports and said "Anthony is on vacation. We are studying the different projects and we will take time. Anthony has made sure to be fit and ready for his new club. He has been training normally for two months.”

The agent also said “He is 28-years-old. I hear reports that he would be too financially greedy with the clubs. This is not true. Anthony wants an ambitious project to achieve high club goals and get back into the France team. He will choose his club according to the sporting and family project. The finances are important for any professional player but they are not his priority."

Anthony Marial made his Manchester United debut against Liverpool after signing in 2015. He made his first game memorable as he scored a brilliant goal that saw his side win the game. Martial played 209 matches for United and scored 63 goals, his best season came in 23 goals from 48 matches in 2019/20.