In a recent interview, the father of famous striker Radamel Falcao shared a surprising story from 2014. He said his son chose Man United over big clubs like Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City. The reason? Falcao saw United as the biggest team in England.
Who Is Radamel Falcao?
Radamel Falcao García Zárate was born in 1986 in Colombia. He started his football journey very young. He played for local teams before moving to River Plate in Argentina. There, he won titles and caught the eye of European clubs. In 2009, he joined Porto in Portugal, where he really shone. Radamel Falcao scored loads of goals, helping Porto win the league and the Europa League in 2011. He netted 17 goals in that Europa League campaign, a record at the time.
Next, Radamel Falcao moved to Atletico Madrid in Spain for a big fee. He kept scoring which led Atletico Madrid to another Europa League win in 2012 and a Copa del Rey triumph over Real Madrid in 2013. Fans loved his speed, strength, and finishing. By 2013, he joined Monaco in France, but a bad knee injury in 2014 kept him out for months. This injury happened just before the World Cup, which he missed. Despite that, the top clubs still wanted him because of his proven talent. Radamel Falcao has scored over 300 goals in his career and also played for Colombia in the big tournaments.
The 2014 Transfer Saga
The summer of 2014 was busy for the transfers. Man United, under new manager Louis van Gaal, needed a star striker after Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement. The team had finished seventh the previous season, their worst in years. They wanted to rebuild and get back to winning ways. Radamel Falcao was recovering from his injury. Moreover, he was available on loan from Monaco. But he had options from the other big teams.
Father’s Shocking Revelation
Years later, father of Radamel Falcao, Radamel Garcia, opened up about the choice. In a chat with Colombian media, he said, “Man Utd are the biggest team – my son turned down Arsenal and Liverpool for them.” He explained that Falcao always dreamed of playing in the Premier League, and United was his top pick. Garcia mentioned that offers came from Arsenal, Liverpool, and City, but Falcao felt United’s history and fan base made them the most important club in England.
Falcao’s Time at Manchester United
Falcao joined United on deadline day in September 2014. He made his debut soon after, scoring his first goal against Everton. But things didn’t go as planned. The injury affected his form, and he struggled to adapt to the fast Premier League style. In 29 games, he scored only four goals. Fans expected more from a player of his caliber.
Van Gaal often played him as a sub, and competition from Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie limited his starts. United finished fourth that season, qualifying for the Champions League, but Falcao didn’t shine. The club didn’t buy him permanently, and he moved to Chelsea on loan next. There, too, injuries hampered him, and he scored just one goal. Later, he returned to Monaco and found form again, even helping them reach the Champions League semi-finals in 2017. Today, at 39, he plays for Millonarios in Colombia, still loved by fans.
Impact on the Clubs Involved
Falcao’s choice had ripple effects. For United, it was a bold move that didn’t pay off short-term, but it showed their pulling power. Arsenal signed Danny Welbeck instead, who did okay but not at Falcao’s level. Liverpool got Mario Balotelli, which turned out poorly. City strengthened elsewhere and kept winning titles.
This story reminds us why United is called a giant. Their global fan base, historic stadium Old Trafford, and legends like George Best, Bobby Charlton, and Cristiano Ronaldo make them special. Even now, under new owners, they’re trying to reclaim top spot. For Arsenal and Liverpool, missing out on Falcao might have been a blessing, as they built strong teams later. Liverpool won the Champions League in 2019 and the league in 2020, while Arsenal are title contenders today.
Why Manchester United Is Still Seen as the Biggest
Falcao’s dad called them the biggest because of this aura. In England, United has more titles than Liverpool (20 vs 19) and Arsenal (13). Their 1999 Treble – winning league, cup, and Champions League – is legendary. Young players still dream of playing there, like recent signings. This prestige helps in transfers, even against richer clubs like City.
Reflections and Legacy
Falcao’s Man United stint is seen as a flop, but he doesn’t regret it. In interviews, he said it was a dream to play there, and he learned a lot. His father’s comments add a personal touch, showing family influence in big decisions. For fans, it’s a reminder that passion and history matter in football, not just money.
Today, Falcao is a role model in Colombia, inspiring kids. His career shows highs and lows, but resilience wins. This story might encourage young talents to follow their hearts when choosing clubs.
The Ship Still Sailing
Radamel Falcao’s choice to join Man United over Arsenal, Liverpool, and City proves the club’s lasting appeal. His father’s words – “Man Utd are the biggest team” – capture why. Despite a tough spell at Old Trafford, the decision was about legacy and dreams. Football is full of such stories, where heart guides over logic.
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