Anthony Martial Set for Surprise Move to Mexico as Former Man Utd Striker Nears Pumas Switch

Anthony Martial’s career has rarely followed a predictable path, and now it looks like another fascinating chapter is about to begin. The former Manchester United forward is reportedly close to sealing a shock move to Mexico, where he could line up alongside former Arsenal star Aaron Ramsey and legendary goalkeeper Keylor Navas at Pumas.

AEK Athens, Martial’s current club, are open to letting the Frenchman go, and talks over a loan move to Liga MX are advancing. For a player who once carried the hopes of Manchester United fans as the club’s next great number nine, this potential switch marks yet another twist in a career defined by high expectations, moments of brilliance, and no shortage of frustration.

Martial’s Time at AEK Athens Coming to an End

Martial

When Martial signed for AEK Athens last year, it felt like a fresh start. After leaving Manchester United following nine turbulent seasons, he seemed motivated to show he still had plenty to offer. The Frenchman managed 23 appearances in his debut campaign, scoring nine goals and adding two assists. Those numbers weren’t disastrous, but they weren’t enough to convince the club that he should remain central to their plans going forward.

AEK Athens are now looking to trim their wage bill, and Martial is one of the highest earners in the squad. His contract runs until 2027, but with Pumas coming forward with a serious offer for a loan deal, the Greek club is willing to sanction a move if the financial details can be worked out. Reports suggest that the biggest hurdle right now is Martial’s salary, which Pumas would like Athens to subsidise in part to make the deal feasible.

From Monaco Wonderkid to Manchester United Star

Pumas UNAM v Atlas – Torneo Apertura 2025 Liga MX

Martial’s journey to this point has been anything but straightforward. After coming through the ranks at Lyon, he made the switch to Monaco in 2013, where his pace, flair, and composure in front of goal caught the eye of scouts across Europe. By 2015, he had done enough to convince Manchester United to break the bank for him, signing the then-19-year-old for €42m (£36m/$48m) — a record fee for a teenager at the time.

The expectations were huge, but Martial announced himself with an unforgettable solo goal against Liverpool on his debut at Old Trafford. For a while, it looked like United had unearthed a new superstar. He finished his first season with 17 goals in all competitions, quickly becoming a fan favourite.

The Struggles at Manchester United

Yet as the seasons rolled on, Martial’s time at United became more complicated. Injuries, tactical changes, and strained relationships with managers — particularly José Mourinho — saw him slip in and out of the starting XI.

He did enjoy flashes of his best form, none more so than during the 2019-20 campaign, when he struck 23 goals across all competitions and formed a dangerous partnership with Marcus Rashford. But consistency remained elusive, and when fitness problems returned, so too did the doubts over whether Martial could ever truly be the reliable, week-in-week-out striker United needed.

By the time he departed in 2023, Martial had made 319 appearances for the club, scoring 90 goals. That tally is nothing to scoff at, but many fans were left with a sense of what might have been had he stayed fit and found stability under one manager.

A New Challenge in Mexico?

Now, at 29, Martial appears ready for a completely new challenge — one that could take him outside of Europe for the first time in his career. If the deal goes through, he will join Pumas, one of Mexico’s most historic clubs, as they chase glory in the Apertura tournament.

The move would see Martial share the pitch with some familiar names. Aaron Ramsey, the former Arsenal midfielder, is already part of the squad, as is Keylor Navas, the former Real Madrid and PSG goalkeeper who brings a wealth of experience and star power. Together, they could form the backbone of a Pumas side eager to challenge for silverware.

For Martial, a move to Liga MX might be exactly what he needs: a fresh environment, a passionate fanbase, and a league that values technical ability and flair. The Mexican game could allow him to play with freedom again, away from the scrutiny and pressure that weighed him down in England.

The Final Hurdle – His Wages

Of course, none of this will happen unless the financial details can be ironed out. Martial’s wages at AEK Athens are significant, and Pumas are reportedly unwilling to take on the full amount. Negotiations are ongoing, with Athens and Martial’s representatives working to find a solution before the transfer window closes later this week.

If a compromise is reached, it could pave the way for one of the more intriguing moves of the summer. Martial might not be the unstoppable teenage prodigy who once graced the Theatre of Dreams, but he remains a player capable of producing magical moments.

A Career That Still Has Chapters Left

While some might view a switch to Mexico as a step down, it could just as easily be the spark that reignites Martial’s career. Plenty of European players have revitalised themselves in Liga MX, embracing the culture, the intensity, and the love of the game that the league offers.

For Martial, this could be a chance to enjoy his football again, away from the constant comparisons and expectations that defined his years at Manchester United. And if he can stay fit, there’s every chance he becomes a key figure for Pumas and writes a memorable final chapter to a career that has always promised more than it has delivered.