Manchester United confirm forward has undergone surgery and will be sidelined for around 10 weeks

Manchester United have released a fresh update on Anthony Martial’s availability status amid speculation on the forward’s condition.

Martial’s last outing came back on December 9 during a 3-0 Premier League loss to Bournemouth at Old Trafford. When he was omitted from the subsequent matches, Erik ten Hag told the media that his player was suffering from a sickness bug.

The manager kept tight-lipped on Martial’s continued absence for the following weeks as he was forced to make do with a depleted squad across the board.

Last week, reports circulated suggesting that the Frenchman had been exiled from first-team training due to his sub-par fitness levels, however, his representative spoke out to directly rebuff the claims and revealed that the 28-year-old had actually been harbouring an injury concern.

Martial out of action for extended spell

Indeed, this has now proven to be the case; United issued a statement this afternoon confirming that Martial has undergone surgery for a groin problem and is expected to be sidelined for around 10 weeks while he completes his rehabilitation.

🚨 @AnthonyMartial has completed successful surgery to address a groin complaint.

We wish Anthony a speedy recovery and look forward to his return ❤️#MUFC

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 24, 2024

Whether or not this will force the board’s hand into acquiring a stop-gap striker signing before next Thursday’s transfer deadline remains to be seen. If not, responsibility falls onto the shoulders of Rasmus Hojlund and Marcus Rashford for the coming months.