Sadio Mané Knew Exactly What to Say After Jürgen Klopp Offer and Man Utd Interest

Sadio Mané, the former Liverpool star now at Al Nassr, recently opened up about rejecting Manchester United in 2015, a year before joining the Reds under Jürgen Klopp. Speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, the Senegalese forward detailed his conversations with then-United manager Louis van Gaal.[2][3][4]

During the summer of 2015, while shining at Southampton with 10 goals in 30 Premier League games, Mané received a personal call from Van Gaal. "Mané, how are you? What are you doing? I want you to come to Manchester United," the Dutch coach said, assuring him of a spot ahead of stars like Wayne Rooney, Robin van Persie, and Ángel Di María. Despite the interest, Mané was "not convinced" about guaranteed playing time amid United's crowded attack, which also featured Memphis Depay. He felt the project had "too many big players."[2][3]

Mané also met with Tottenham's Mauricio Pochettino, who invited him to their training ground. He found Spurs more appealing than United at the time but ultimately stayed at Southampton for another season, maintaining consistency.[2][3][4]

In 2016, Liverpool signed him for £36 million ($47 million). Mané thrived under Klopp, winning the Premier League, Champions League, and six trophies total. He ranked second in the 2022 Ballon d'Or. His decision proved pivotal; ironically, Di María and Van Persie left United that summer, and Depay flopped.[3]

Mané's story highlights his sharp judgment—he prioritized game time and fit, responding astutely to offers. "We'll see what is best," he told Van Gaal, opting for patience that led to Anfield glory.[2][4]

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