“It was stupid” – Ballon d’Or runner up admits Manchester United mistake, “chose the wrong club”
Manchester United, a club with a rich history, have seen numerous potential transfers that could have happened. The latest addition to this list is Darko Pancev, a striker who, in hindsight, regrets turning down an opportunity to join the Old Trafford club.
Pancev recently discussed his career and former clubs in an interview with Sport Buzzer.
During the conversation, he revealed that he had the chance to move to Manchester United, a decision he now acknowledges as a mistake.
For those not familiar with Pancev, he is considered one of the greatest Macedonian footballers. His career included stints with clubs like Vardar, Red Star, Inter Milan, VfB Leipzig, Fortuna Düsseldorf, and FC Sion.
His impressive list of achievements includes winning the European Cup, and the UEFA Cup, being a Ballon d’Or runner-up and earning the European Golden Shoe in 1991.
Despite his accomplishments, he never played in England, with his move to Inter Milan in 1992 being one of the most significant in his career.
Pancev sealed a €12 million deal with Inter in 1992 and lifted the UEFA Cup with them. However, he struggled to make a lasting impact in Serie A and left the club on loan before making a permanent departure in 1995.
Darko Pancev on his move to Manchester United
Before his move to Inter, Pancev was highly sought after, particularly due to his goal-scoring prowess at Red Star. He mentioned that Manchester United had expressed interest in him during that period.
Pancev said,
“I was very sought after at the time and had many offers, but unfortunately I chose the wrong club.
Inter had an average team back then, in the shadow of AC Milan. I also had huge differences of opinion with the coach at the time.”
He further revealed,
“Nevertheless, in the winter I received an offer from Sir Alex Ferguson, who wanted to bring me to Manchester United. But I didn’t follow the call because I wanted to prove to the Italians that I could make it in Serie A. In hindsight, I have to admit it was stupid!”
