Solskjaer reveals how Martial has reacted to ‘disgusting’ abuse

Joe Williams
Anthony Martial Manchester United Solskjaer

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says Manchester United striker Anthony Martial is remaining “mentally strong” after being subjected to racial abuse on social media.

The Frenchman, who along with Axel Tuanzebe was targeted last month following the Red Devils’ loss to Sheffield United, was again on the receiving end after playing the first 66 minutes of the disappointing 1-1 draw against West Brom over the weekend.

A number of Instagram users left racist words and symbols in the comments section of Martial’s most recent – 16-week-old – post.


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“I spoke to him this morning and he’s mentally strong,” Solskjaer told reporters, when asked how he keeps Martial’s head high amid the abuse.

“It’s not something anyone should have to go through. He definitely seems like he is – he’s not checking social media – but it is disgusting. We have to do something about it.”

Meanwhile, United are back in action on Thursday as they face La Liga side Real Sociedad in the first leg of their last-32 Europa League tie.

The Red Devils haven’t been on top form in the Premier League in recent weeks and Solskjaer thinks they will have to be at the top of their game to get a result against Sociedad.

Solskjaer said: “You’ve got to be very, very good against them. Probably the hardest team we could get at this stage. Still in the hunt for Champions League.

“We have to play at a high level to get a result.”

On their poor recent record against La Liga sides, Solskjaer added: “It’s probably down to the level of teams we’ve played. Spanish teams are good – we haven’t played well enough. We don’t go into games worrying.”