Anthony Martial is close to returning to Europe after turning down a ‘crazy offer.’
Anthony Martial is getting close to joining LaLiga team Malaga after turning down a huge offer from another club as he looks to revive his football career.
Martial became a free agent in June after ending his contract with Mexican club Monterrey by mutual agreement. He scored just once in 20 matches for Monterrey after signing in June 2025. Before that, he played in Greece with AEK Athens, where he scored nine goals in 24 games.
Martial was once one of Manchester United’s most exciting forwards, but now, at 30, he’s keen to rebuild his career after some tough years. This summer, he turned down strong offers from two French Ligue 1 clubs because they couldn’t promise him regular playing time.
Even Everton had the chance to sign him after missing out on other strikers before the transfer window closed, but it seemed unlikely. Now, Malaga look ready to give Martial a shot. He is reportedly in advanced talks to return to LaLiga, after a loan spell at Sevilla in the 2021/22 season, and could sign soon.
Surprisingly, a Libyan team, Al-Ittihad Tripoli, made Martial an amazing offer with a €10 million salary over two years and a €5 million signing bonus. But Martial said no, choosing to focus on playing in Europe rather than just making money.
Malaga currently sit 18th in LaLiga, with three draws and two losses from five games. Bringing Martial in could help boost their chances of staying up in the league.
At his best, Martial was known for his quick pace, smart movement, and great finishing. His 2019/20 season at Manchester United was his best, scoring 17 goals in 32 league games and helping the team reach the Europa League semi-finals with four goals.
Though Martial hasn’t looked like his old self for a while, he still has some good years ahead to make a mark in Europe. A move to Malaga could be a great fresh start where he might get plenty of game time, although he’ll need to prove himself after a disappointing spell in Mexico.
LaLiga’s playing style could suit him well since attackers often have more space and time on the ball, giving Martial the chance to use his speed to trouble defenders.
For Martial, showing he still has the drive to compete in one of Europe’s top leagues is just as important as showing his skills—and many Man United fans are hoping he can find his old form again.