As Marouane Fellaini edged closer to his Old Trafford exit, Manchester United confirmed a new five-year contract for Anthony Martial.
The two events were instantly viewed as symbolic gestures, with caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer distancing himself from his predecessor’s footballing philosophy.
Fellaini underwent a medical and agreed terms with Chinese Super League club Shandong Luneng as the Premier League deadline approached, having been frozen out since Jose Mourinho’s sacking.
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In stark contrast, Martial has shown signs he will thrive under a different style of coaching.
“For a young man, he has a good footballing brain, which, when coupled with his exceptional talent, makes for a player with an exciting future ahead of him,” said Solskjaer.
Martial’s new deal runs until 2024 but he has the option for another season. The 23-year-old moved to Old Trafford for £36m in 2015.