Zion Suzuki reveals why he rejected Manchester United switch
The start of the Premier League 2025/26 was not as expected for Manchester United. The team lost 1-0 in the very first match against Arsenal. The game looked good in the first few minutes, but a mistake by Altay Bayindir spoiled everything. His miscalculation on the corner cost United heavily, and Riccardo Calafiori put the ball in the net. After this, Benjamin Sesko came on the field, hopes were raised, but two chances of Bryan Mbeumo went in vain.
A brilliant acrobatic effort went out wide, and David Raya stopped the second header. This is the reality of the team that finished 15th last season, are out of European competitions, and the biggest concern is the same one that has been haunting them since last season—goalkeeping. André Onana’s mistakes have already cost the team several crucial points, and now the club are looking for a new goalkeeper.
Zion Suzuki and United’s interest
Manchester United’s name were linked to several goalkeepers in the summer, and one of them was Parma’s Zion Suzuki. Earlier, there were reports that United had intensified their scouting and the shot-stopper was being assessed at £40 million. Interestingly, United had an agreement to buy him from Urawa Red Diamonds in 2023, but the player turned down the offer and moved on loan to Sint-Truiden in Belgium.
Zion Suzuki reveals why he rejected Manchester United summer switch.
Zion Suzuki (Via X)
Now, the 23-year-old has openly said that his full focus is on Parma. He admitted that there were a lot of rumours, but his priority is to prepare properly for the season. The Japanese goalkeeper said that Parma made him an offer that was difficult to refuse, and that is why he immediately chose this club.
Suzuki described last year as the perfect opportunity for him to develop and said that his experience with Parma has been great so far. It is clear from these things that the player wants to give stability to his career and considers it better to stay away from a big challenge like United for the time being. No matter how much interest United show, Suzuki is currently inclined towards shaping his future in Italy. (Via TuttoMercatoWeb).
“I know there were a lot of rumours about me, but I’m totally focused on Parma and preparing to start the season well. Parma made me a fantastic offer, so I immediately decided to accept and join this club. Last year was an opportunity to grow, and I’m really happy with my choice.”
Opinion:
Now the question is whether Suzuki did the right thing or the wrong thing by rejecting United in 2023? In our opinion, he made the right decision because playing consistently is the most important thing for a young goalkeeper. The pressure at Old Trafford is different, and small setbacks here can change the direction of a career.
On the other hand, given United’s situation, a £40 million purchase could certainly strengthen the defence, but this is possible only if the player is mentally prepared. Suzuki is completely satisfied at Parma right now, and this is boosting his confidence. Young players should first gain stability at smaller clubs and later take on the pressure of a bigger club. This situation is disappointing for United, but Suzuki’s priorities are understandable. Meanwhile, Manchester United keep eyeing Senne Lammens as Emi Martinez’s pursuit hits a dead end.