Former Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar has disclosed that he held discussions with the club about a potential return in an executive capacity. The 55-year-old Dutchman, who spent six seasons at Old Trafford from 2005 to 2011, revealed he spoke twice with former United executive Ed Woodward about taking up a role alongside him.
Van der Sar, who later served as chief executive at Ajax until 2023, said he opted to remain with the Dutch club at the time. Speaking on The Overlap, he stated: 'Yes, I spoke to Ed Woodward twice about taking up a role at Manchester United, but at that point, I didn't think my job was finished at Ajax with the path we were going on – we were not there yet.'
The former shot-stopper also praised current United goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who joined the club this summer. Van der Sar said: 'He's doing well. It certainly looks like he knows the physicality of the Premier League – I see him coming for balls in the penalty spot and he claims them with confidence.'
Van der Sar suffered a brain bleed shortly after leaving Ajax but has since made a full recovery. He is currently enjoying an extended break from football, having taken time to travel and relax with his wife.
