It may not have been the best season for Manchester United fans, but their recent, fruitful exploits in front of goal led to a new milestone during the team’s recent 2-2 draw with Southampton when French striker Anthony Martial became the first player since 2008 to reach 50 Premier League goals for the club.
His form since arriving has almost been a microcosm of the club itself in the past five years, with many peaks and troths, but Martial’s form this season – especially since the restart – suggests that he is now developing into the accomplished striker he always looked possible of becoming. Martial even found his place in the Premier League team of the month in June. Having now reached a half-century for the Red Devils, let’s take a look back at some of Martial’s finest moments in a red shirt so far.
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Top Martial’s goals for the Red Devils
1. First goal: Vs Liverpool, 12th September 2015
For many, Martial’s first goal for United, in the game against Liverpool, will forever be etched in their mind as the Frenchman’s most iconic moment. Having just arrived from Monaco with a hefty price tag, the then-teenage sensation made his debut with United 2-1 up against their rivals. Taking the ball on the wing, he proceeded to run inside, turn Martin Skrtel inside and out before slotting the ball into the far corner. Surely one of the greatest debut goals ever in English football.
2. 50th goal: Vs Southampton, 13th July 2020
Martial reached his landmark in United’s recent draw with Southampton. Receiving the ball on the wing once again, Martial cut inside the left flank, feinted to shoot once or twice before unleashing a venomous shot inside the near post. It’s a goal that is becoming something of a trademark of his.
3. The Best goal: Vs Fulham, 9th February 2019
Running at defenders really is one of Martial’s strengths, and he showed it with devastating effect against Fulham last season. Making the most of a lightning counter-attack, Martial sidestepped not one, but two Fulham defenders, before finessing the ball into the far corner. Perhaps not as memorable as his strike against Liverpool, but a great goal all the same.
4. Most Important Goal: Vs Manchester City, 8th March 2020
United’s fight for the top four looks set to go right down to the wire and their win over local rivals Manchester City right before the lockdown was arguably their most significant of the whole season. Although Martial’s opener in that game probably should’ve been saved by Ederson, it got United on their way to an absolutely crucial win. Not only that, but it also secured United’s first derby double over City in 10 years.
5. Most memorable Goal: Vs Sheffield United, 24th June 2020
We could easily fill this spot with the Liverpool goal as well, but let’s look beyond that. In the midst of United’s post-lockdown goal glut, Martial registered another significant achievement in the Red Devils’ win over Sheffield United, in which he became the first United player since the Ferguson days to score a Premier League hat trick, with a deft finish over the ‘keeper. It may seem trivial, but it is also a symbolic landmark in United’s journey to re-establish themselves as an exciting, attacking team.
