The numbers show that. Martial’s 0.20 xG Buildup per 90 this season is about the same as the 0.21 he had last season, showing that he’s been just as involved in United’s buildup play. But his creativity has gone down. His shot-creating actions this season have dropped from 3.26 per 90 last season to 2.61. All of this is above Cavani, who has a 0.19 xG Buildup but just 1.94 shot-creating actions per 90.
If we look deeper we can see exactly how Martial is creating shots. When playing as a center forward Martial has created seven shots from being fouled this season, a whopping four of which have been penalties (he’s won six(!!) penalties in all competitions). On the left wing, that number is zero.