Xavi Hernandez reveals he turned down Manchester United for Barcelona stay
Speaking to The Times (Subscription Required) [h/t Metro], Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez revealed that he was approached by Manchester United through Sir Alex Ferguson’s brother.
While not mentioned in the interview, Ferguson’s brother in this conversation would most definitely be Martin Murphy Ferguson, who managed teams such as Waterford and Albion Rovers after his playing days.
Xavi is arguably one of the biggest names in Barcelona’s history. Having had a trophy cabinet filled with every kind of silverware there is to win, he would hardly have any regrets from his playing days.
But he revealed that he was approached by the Red Devils once in the past. However, he turned down their approach because of his love for the Catalan giants.
Xavi at Old Trafford?
“Manchester United approached me once through Sir Alex Ferguson’s brother, but my answer was very quick. I was focused on Barca, my priority was only Barca. I am a fan from the very inside of myself and that’s why was impossible for me to leave.”
The FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euros winner with Spain says that he sees things differently now, and that the prospect of managing a team in England’s first division entices him. The 41-year-old currently manages Al-Sadd SC in Qatar.
“Now I see it differently. Everyone tells me that the Premier League is wonderful, a great league to work in. First of all, for the passion with how they live the game. How they treat and respect you, the atmosphere and the stadiums. So why not? I could see myself [managing] in England, definitely, it’s one of the things I’d like to experience in my career.”
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While the time frame of United’s approach is not mentioned, Xavi’s inclusion in United’s midfield during any point of his playing career would have been a huge sight for the fans to see. It’s a shame they didn’t get to see it happen.