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The Digest:

Sadio Mané has revealed he turned down a 2016 move to Manchester United. Speaking to ESPN, the now Al-Nassr star explained that a conversation with then-manager Louis van Gaal left him unconvinced about his playing time amidst the club's array of established attacking talents.

Key Points:
  • Sadio Mané disclosed a 2016 offer from Manchester United.
  • He had a direct phone conversation with manager Louis van Gaal.
  • Mané questioned his playing time amid stars like Rooney and Di María.
  • He felt unconvinced by Van Gaal's assurance of earning his place.
  • The Senegalese star believed he needed more development at the time.
  • He subsequently joined Liverpool after a call from Jürgen Klopp.
  • Manchester United signed Anthony Martial after failing to secure Mané.
The decision underscores a pivotal crossroads, where a player’s instinct for his own growth charted a path away from prestige, toward a legacy that was truly his own.


Sources: ESPN, Complete Sports