Not Rashford or Pogba: Dalot names former Man Utd star who could have been the best in the world

Manchester United star Diogo Dalot has revealed who was one of the toughest players to train against at the club.

In an interview with Man United legend Rio Ferdinand, Dalot reminded former club icons about their responsibility in public criticism.

The Portuguese full-back was also challenged to name his five-a-side team from the teammates he has shared the pitch with.

The 26-year-old named Pepe, Bruno Fernandes, Paul Pogba and Cristiano Ronaldo as the first four players but it was his final pick that truly raised eyebrows.

Dalot opted for Anthony Martial, a choice that caught even Ferdinand by surprise.

He said (via Rio Ferdinand Presents): “I’m going to put one more up front. I’m going to say Martial.

“I’m going to say it because I’m going to combine what, obviously, he could do in games, but in training.

“And I played a lot against him, so it was really, really tough to play. And he was one of those that, if he had obviously a bit more consistency, sometimes he would disconnect a little bit from everything. But if he wanted, he could be the best player in the world. Easily.”

Tough times at United did not help Anthony Martial

Players often shoulder the burden of delivering trophies, yet success at an elite club also depends on the structure and leadership behind the scenes.

Martial arrived at Old Trafford as a generational prospect, becoming the most expensive teenager in football history when signed under then-manager Louis van Gaal.

Over nine seasons in Manchester, the French forward produced flashes of brilliance that lit up the Theatre of Dreams.

His sensational debut goal against Liverpool and decisive strike in the FA Cup semi-final versus Everton remain etched in supporters’ memories.

Few will forget his outstanding 2019/20 campaign, when he scored 23 goals and provided nine assists in 48 appearances across all competitions.

Yet inconsistency and persistent injury setbacks ultimately stalled his upward trajectory.

Martial undoubtedly fell short of his immense potential, but questions can also be asked of the club hierarchy and the managerial framework that surrounded him.

In 2024, his chapter at United quietly closed when the club allowed his contract to expire.

Stats from Fotmob.com

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .