Anthony Martial explains why Erik ten Hag’s style of football is “perfect” for him

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Manchester United striker Anthony Martial has explained why Erik ten Hag‘s style of football is “perfect” for the Frenchman.

Prior to the Dutchman taking the reins at Old Trafford, it was unclear whether United’s number nine, who endured an underwhelming loan spell with Sevilla during the second half of last season, would form part of Ten Hag’s plans.

But with Cristiano Ronaldo not forming part of Tour 22 and Edinson Cavani already released, the former Monaco man found himself as the main man during pre-season.

The mercurial Frenchman linked up in devastating fashion with the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford.

The France international, who will be hoping to join Raphael Varane in Didier Deschamps’ 26-man France squad for the World Cup, looked all set to start the season as out first choice striker, but injury setbacks have derailed his campaign.

Since the former Ajax manager arrived at Carrington, Martial has picked up three different injuries and he’s only started one game this season.

But despite not playing more than 45 minutes in a single appearance during the 2022-23 campaign, Martial has three goals and two assists from five appearances.

Anthony Martial explains why Ten Hag’s style of football is perfect for him

During Martial’s chat with TeamViewer Diaries, the Frenchman explains why the former Ajax manager’s philosophy and style of play suits his game.

Martial said: “He’s a very good manager. He’s a meticulous person, who pays attention to all the details.

“He wants us to produce good football with the desire to press for the loss of the ball. It’s perfect for me, for my style of play.”

The 30-time France international also spoke about the impact the club’s six summer signings have had on the team and how the healthy competition for places was benefiting the team.

Martial added: “We brought in some very good players this summer. They have adapted very well, and we are very happy to have them.

“When there is competition, you have to continue to put in great performances to keep your place, it’s a good thing for the team.”

Martial, who marked his return from a back injury by coming off the bench in Sunday’s 3-1 defeat to Aston Villa, will be hoping to make his second start of the season in tomorrow night’s Carabao Cup third-round clash against the Villains at Old Trafford.

Given how highly Ten Hag rates Martial and the importance he knows he brings to his United side, it does seem only a matter of time before Martial ousts Cristiano Ronaldo in the number nine position.

After a stop-start to the season, Martial may benefit from not being called-up to Les Bleus’ World Cup squad and instead stay behind at Carrington, get two friendlies under his belt in Spain in December, and work closely with Ten Hag to ensure when the domestic season resumes after the World Cup, he’s in optimum shape and ready to hit the ground running.