Former Liverpool forward Sadio Mané has made a stunning revelation about how he rejected a move to Manchester United in favour of joining their arch-rivals Liverpool, citing concerns over playing time assurances from then-manager Louis van Gaal.
The Transfer Decision That Shaped Premier League History
In a candid interview on Rio Ferdinand Presents, the Senegalese international disclosed that United made a serious approach for his services in 2016 while he was still at Southampton. The potential transfer appeared to be progressing until Mané's conversation with Van Gaal raised red flags about his role in the star-studded squad.
"Manchester United called me at that time," Mané recalled. "I was speaking with Van Gaal. [Wayne] Rooney was there. And [Ángel] Di María was there. And [Memphis] Depay was there."
Van Gaal's Vague Promises That Cost United
The crucial moment came when Mané directly questioned the Dutch manager about his potential playing time amidst United's attacking riches. "I said, 'OK, so my question. You have Depay, you have Rooney, you have Di María, you have Van Persie. So where am I going to play?' That was my question, because I want to play."
Van Gaal's response failed to convince the ambitious forward. "He told me: 'I know your talent, you are good. But if you make good training, good impression, you will have to play. But we have another player who is also good.'"
Mané explained why this approach didn't work for him: "It didn't convince me with his explanation. I spoke with the coach, but he told me I would play if I was good. But at that moment I wasn't ready, I was young. I still needed someone to help me more. And one or two more years to become what I want to be."
Liverpool's Gain Becomes United's Loss
Instead of moving to Old Trafford, Mané joined Liverpool for £30 million in 2016, embarking on a highly successful six-year spell at Anfield. The Senegalese star went on to make 269 appearances for the Reds, scoring 120 goals and forming part of the legendary attacking trio with Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino.
United's loss became particularly painful for their supporters as Mané developed into one of the Premier League's most formidable attackers, helping Liverpool win multiple trophies including the Champions League and Premier League title.
After United failed to secure Mané's signature, they signed Anthony Martial instead, as the Senegalese forward revealed: "When they didn't manage to sign me, they bought [Anthony] Martial."
Mané also disclosed that he held talks with Tottenham about a potential move, being impressed with Mauricio Pochettino's project, though that transfer never materialised either. He eventually left Liverpool for Bayern Munich in 2022 after establishing himself as a modern Anfield great.
