Robert Lewandowski, the prolific striker, recently opened up about his near-move to Manchester United in 2012. In a surprising revelation, Lewandowski disclosed that he said yes to Sir Alex Ferguson’s offer to join the club. However, Borussia Dortmund refused to sell him, citing his importance to the team. This decision would ultimately shape Lewandowski’s career, leading him to become one of the most feared strikers in the world.
The Conversation with Sir Alex Ferguson
Lewandowski recalled a conversation with Ferguson, stating that he was nervous but eager to join Manchester United. The legendary manager’s call came before a preseason game, and despite a slight language barrier due to Lewandowski’s limited English and Ferguson’s Scottish accent, he made it clear he wanted to join Manchester United. Lewandowski stated, “I knew what I should tell him… Yeah, of course, I want to join Manchester United… If Sir Alex Ferguson calls you, you cannot say no, especially when I was 22 or 23 years old”. This conversation highlights Lewandowski’s admiration for Ferguson and his desire to play for Manchester United.
Dortmund’s Refusal
The transfer ultimately fell through due to Dortmund’s refusal to sell Lewandowski. The club’s president told him, “They need me. They’re not going to sell me to Manchester United because I’m so important for them, and it’s not the perfect time”. This decision allowed Lewandowski to continue his growth at Dortmund, eventually leading to his successful stints at Bayern Munich and Barcelona. Lewandowski’s importance to Dortmund was evident, and the club’s decision to retain him would prove to be a shrewd move.
The Impact on Lewandowski’s Career
Lewandowski’s near-move to Manchester United would have significantly altered his career trajectory. Joining Manchester United would have meant playing in a highly competitive environment, with the likes of Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie. However, Lewandowski’s growth at Dortmund and subsequent moves to Bayern Munich and Barcelona would ultimately shape him into the player he is today. Lewandowski’s decision to stay at Dortmund would prove to be a turning point in his career, allowing him to develop his skills and become one of the most prolific strikers in the world.
Lewandowski’s Legacy
Lewandowski’s legacy as one of the greatest strikers of all time is well-deserved. His prolific goal-scoring record and ability to perform under pressure have made him a household name. Lewandowski’s near-move to Manchester United is a fascinating footnote in his career, highlighting the what-ifs that could have been. However, it’s clear that Lewandowski’s growth at Dortmund and subsequent moves would ultimately shape him into the player he is today.
Conclusion
Robert Lewandowski’s revelation about his near-move to Manchester United provides a fascinating insight into his career. The conversation with Sir Alex Ferguson and Dortmund’s refusal to sell him would ultimately shape Lewandowski’s future. Lewandowski’s growth at Dortmund and subsequent moves to Bayern Munich and Barcelona would prove to be instrumental in his development as a player. The what-ifs of Lewandowski’s career will continue to be debated, but one thing is certain – Lewandowski’s legacy as one of the greatest strikers of all time is well-deserved.
In conclusion, Lewandowski’s near-move to Manchester United is a captivating story that highlights the complexities of football transfers. The decision to retain Lewandowski would prove to be a shrewd move by Dortmund, allowing him to develop his skills and become one of the most prolific strikers in the world. Lewandowski’s career is a testament to his hard work and dedication, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of footballers.
The world of football is full of what-ifs, and Lewandowski’s near-move to Manchester United is a prime example. However, it’s clear that Lewandowski’s growth at Dortmund and subsequent moves would ultimately shape him into the player he is today. Lewandowski’s story serves as a reminder that sometimes, the decisions we don’t make can be just as important as the ones we do.
