Youri Djorkaeff reveals why he rejected Manchester United
Image Credits: Imago Images
Youri Djorkaeff played for some of the world’s biggest clubs including Paris Saint Germain and Inter Milan although never played for Manchester United.
The attacking midfielder did spend time in England, though, with him joining Bolton Wanderers in 2002, reaching the League Cup final with the side across his three seasons.
He also played for Blackburn Rovers, joining the side in 2004, in a short spell which lasted for just three games.
His move to Bolton turned many heads, however, as supporters questioned why he did not join one of England’s bigger clubs.
At the time of his move to Wanderers, Manchester United were one of the best teams in the world but were still looking to become even better but the Frenchman rejected the Red Devils.
Youri Djorkaeff has now answered the questions of supporters, revealing the story behind his move to Bolton Wanderers and why he rejected United.
Speaking to FourFourTwo, the attacking midfielder stated that “it was more than just a challenge – it was about trying to achieve a miracle” when joining Bolton.
He continued: “Bolton were down near the bottom of the Premier League, and I didn’t know much about the club. But Sam Allardyce came all the way to Germany for lunch and told me he needed me to help save the team.”
On Manchester United specifically, Djorkaeff stated: “Big Sam told me that no matter what, I’d play every match, even if I wasn’t at my best.
“That’s not something Gerard Houllier or Sir Alex Ferguson could have promised. I felt it was better to go to Bolton for 12 games because I wouldn’t lose my credibility, then I could decide whether to stay or leave. In the end, I chose to extend my stay because I felt really good there.”
With his priority for game-time taking precedent over the size of any potential club, it is clear to see why the Frenchman joined Bolton over Manchester United.
That is something that may come into the minds of modern players considering a move to Old Trafford such as Mateus Fernandes, who has attracted large attention from the club so far this summer.
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