Anthony Martial Comments on Thierry Henry Comparisons, Manchester United Move

Manchester United striker Anthony Martial has surged with his new team, scoring four goals in his first seven games since arriving last month via transfer from AS Monaco.

The 19-year-old Frenchman's rapid rise has drawn comparisons to Arsenal and France legend Thierry Henry. 

Martial, however, remained modest when commenting to French TV channel BFM on the perceived correlations (h/t the Guardian).

"I know this is a very great player who is a legend in England," Martial said. "I don't think we have the same characteristics. Thierry Henry is Thierry Henry. I still have everything to prove. By continuing to work, I will try to reach his level but I am still very far off."    

Martial’s move to Manchester United at the transfer deadline—the highest-paid ever for a teenager at £36 million, which could reach £58 million—has been paying off given his early production with the Red Devils, even in light of United's 3-0 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday.

Martial reportedly rejected a higher transfer offer from defending Premier League champions Chelsea, per Samuel Luckhurst of the Manchester Evening News, and the striker explained his decision to join Manchester United to French radio station RMC (h/t Goal.com's Eliot Rothwell).    

"

Why I chose Manchester United? Because, for me, they are among the five best clubs in the world. I also really wanted to continue to play in the Champions League. This is what made my decision. And I know [Manchester United manager Louis] Van Gaal wanted me. That's what motivated me to take a decision. It was very important to show the coach that he could trust me.

"

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger told the Daily Star's Jon West that the Gunners expressed interest in Martial last year but didn’t follow up on those aspirations during this year’s transfer window 

“I thought they would not sell him this year because they had sold so many other players," Wenger said. "They said they would not sell him and I thought they were not in any need to sell and would maintain their word.”

Arsenal may have bested Manchester United on Sunday, but the Red Devils came away with a promising talent who has the potential to blossom into the sport's newest star.  

Martial and Manchester United head into the international break on the back of the defeat before returning to the pitch on Oct. 17 against Everton, where they will look to get all three points at Goodison Park after goalless defeats in each of the past two seasons.