Mané: I chose Liverpool vs. Utd for playing time

Sadio Mané has revealed the reasons behind his decision to join Liverpool instead of Manchester United in 2016. At the time, Mané was a standout performer for Southampton, scoring 21 Premier League goals over two seasons, which attracted interest from several top clubs, including United.

Mané admitted he was close to signing for Manchester United, even meeting with then-manager Louis van Gaal and discussing the move. United had made an official offer, and Mané was seriously considering their proposal. However, everything changed when Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp personally called him.

Klopp convinced Mané that Liverpool was the right club for him, emphasizing the playing style and the manager's vision. Mané said, “He said: ‘I think it’s the right club. The right coach for me, and I think it’s better that I go to Liverpool.’ For me, I think it was the right time as well. I said, ‘I am going to Liverpool.’”

Mané also reflected on his previous performances against Liverpool while at Southampton, noting that he had scored many goals against them. He joked that Klopp might have thought, “He’s always killing us, so let’s buy him!” This move proved beneficial for both parties, as Mané went on to become a key player for Liverpool, helping the club achieve significant success.

Mané’s decision was ultimately based on the opportunity for regular playing time and the belief that Liverpool’s style of football suited his strengths. His choice has been vindicated by his subsequent achievements with the Reds, including winning the Premier League and the Champions League.