Manchester United

Earlier this month, French defender Raphael Varane will depart the club when his contract expires at the end of June.

Varane will now be followed out the door by his compatriot Martial, who will also leave Man United upon the expiry of his contract.

In an emotional social media post, the 28-year-old confirmed that his nine-year stay at Old Trafford will come to an end.

Martial bids farewell to Man United

Posting on Instagram, Martial said: "Dear Man United fans, It's with great emotion that I write to you today to say goodbye. After nine incredible years at the club, the time has come for me to turn a new page in my career.

"Since I arrived in 2015, I have had the immense honour of wearing this shirt and playing in front of you, the best supporters in the world! You have been an unwavering support, through the good times and the difficult. Your passion and loyalty have been a constant source of motivation for me.

"I'd like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything you've done for me. Your songs, your encouragement and your love for the club are memories that will remain engraved in my heart forever.

"I would also like to express my gratitude to all my teammates, technical staff and all the members of the club I have met during my nine years here. I am proud to have been able to share these experiences with you.

"Man United will always be in my heart. This club has left its mark on my career and offered me an incredible opportunity to play in front of you. I'm leaving to take on new challenges, I'll always be a Red Devil, and I'll continue to follow the club's results with passion."

Tale of unfulfilled potential

Martial made a quick start to his Man United career, scoring on his debut against Liverpool after arriving from Monaco in 2015 for an initial £36m.

However, he was unable to build upon that early promise, with poor form and injuries stopping him from living up to expectations.

Martial briefly spent time on loan at Spanish side Sevilla in 2022, before he returned to the club following the arrival of Erik ten Hag.

The Dutchman tried to get the best of Martial, but injuries have restricted the forward to 34 Premier League appearances across the last two seasons.

After undergoing groin surgery earlier this year, Martial has not featured for Man United since a 3-0 home defeat against Bournemouth on December 9.

During his nine years as a Man United player, he scored 90 goals and provided 47 assists in 317 matches in all competitions.

The Frenchman departs the Red Devils after winning two EFL Cups, the FA Cup, Europa League and Community Shield.