Report: Why This Former Star Snubbed Liverpool for Manchester United | OneFootball

Mikael Silvestre: Why Joining Manchester United Over Liverpool Was the Right Choice

Mikael Silvestre’s decision to sign for Manchester United in 1999 over Liverpool was a pivotal moment in his career, one that cemented his place in English football history. With nine years at United and an impressive tally of 10 major honours, Silvestre’s choice to play under Sir Alex Ferguson was unquestionably the right decision. But the move nearly went in a different direction, as Liverpool were also keen on the French defender.

United Over Liverpool: The Key Decision

In September 1999, Silvestre’s career was at a crossroads. Playing at Inter Milan, he had offers from two of England’s biggest clubs: Manchester United and Liverpool. The Merseyside team, under Gerard Houllier, made the first formal offer. However, for Silvestre, it wasn’t enough to entice him away from Italy, where he was playing alongside the likes of Ronaldo, Roberto Baggio, and Andrea Pirlo.

Reflecting on the moment, Silvestre said: “Back in 1999 when I first joined United, the press was full of stories that I was about to sign for Liverpool. But trust me, I wasn’t that close.” Despite Liverpool’s interest, Silvestre was drawn to the allure of playing for Ferguson’s United, especially after facing them during a Champions League quarter-final the previous season.

This decision wasn’t just about money or prestige; it was about ambition. Manchester United were on a high, having just won the famous Treble in 1999, and Silvestre had seen first-hand what Old Trafford offered. “A few days later, when I received a call from Sir Alex there was no hesitation,” Silvestre recalled. That call would shape the next decade of his footballing career.

Silvestre’s Instant Impact at United

Upon signing, Silvestre didn’t have much time to adjust to his new surroundings. The day after his transfer was completed, Manchester United faced Liverpool at Anfield. Silvestre was thrown straight into the deep end, making his debut in what he would soon learn was one of the fiercest rivalries in English football. “At the time, I wasn’t aware of how big this rivalry was, in terms of the feeling between the supporters,” he admitted.

Silvestre helped United secure a thrilling 3-2 victory, a match that featured two own-goals from Liverpool’s Jamie Carragher. It was a perfect introduction to English football, but it also gave Silvestre his first taste of Sir Alex Ferguson’s relentless pursuit of perfection. Despite the victory, Ferguson was furious that his team had conceded two goals. “He was not happy with those goals at all, so it quickly spelled out to me that expectations were always going to be high at United,” Silvestre said.

Right Choice Pays Off with Trophies and Glory

Silvestre’s decision to choose United over Liverpool was vindicated by the silverware that followed. During his nine years at Old Trafford, he helped United win four Premier League titles, the FA Cup, and the Champions League. His versatility allowed him to play both as a left-back and a centre-back, and his reliability made him a key figure in Ferguson’s plans.

One of Silvestre’s standout moments came in 2004 when he scored twice against Liverpool at Old Trafford, securing a 2-1 win. It was the only time in his United career that he scored two goals in a single game, and it came against the very club that had tried to sign him five years earlier. “I wasn’t jumping around on the roof when Liverpool came calling,” Silvestre once said, reflecting on his decision. In hindsight, his choice was a masterstroke.

Legacy of a Manchester United Legend

While Silvestre went on to play for Arsenal after leaving Manchester United in 2008, his legacy at Old Trafford remains intact. Few players can boast the level of success he achieved, and his story is one of making the right choice at the right time. By joining United, he aligned himself with one of the most successful eras in the club’s history.

His contribution to United’s success may often be overshadowed by more glamorous names, but Silvestre’s role was vital. His decision to turn down Liverpool and commit to United was not only the right choice but a career-defining moment that ensured his place among the greats of Old Trafford.