Retired Legend Opens Up About Turning Down Manchester United Move Without Any Regrets
Edgar Davids has reflected on his decision to reject a potential transfer to Manchester United nearly three decades ago, choosing instead to continue his journey in Italian football.
Davids gained recognition as the dynamic midfield powerhouse in Ajax's Champions League-winning squad of 1994–95. Following the Dutch club's return to the 1996 final, Davids found himself without a contract and became available as a free agent under the newly implemented 'Bosman' ruling—similar to how Clarence Seedorf had departed in 1995.
During this period, Manchester United had just secured a Premier League and FA Cup double victory, yet Sir Alex Ferguson recognized a chance to sign one of Europe's premier midfield talents. Despite Davids having watched and respected Paul Ince during his time at Old Trafford, his ambitions lay in a different direction.
"I had the opportunity to speak with Sir Alex and it remains one of the most remarkable conversations of my career," he shared with MUTV.
"However, I had already decided to move [to AC Milan]. This was back in 1996, during my time at Ajax, but it was simply [Ferguson's] approach. His character and presence. It was on a completely different scale."
Davids faced difficulties at Milan, a team undergoing changes after their previous European triumphs, but remained in Italy to sign with Juventus a year later. It was at Juventus where he encountered Ferguson's United multiple times, notably during the 1998–99 Champions League semi-final matches.
"I competed against exceptional talents [at United], who went on to achieve remarkable success. When you face certain clubs, you naturally track the development of these emerging players," the Dutch midfielder explained.
"But I have no regrets. I only had eyes for Italy because that's where I wanted to establish myself. The finest players were competing in Italy during that era, much like how the Premier League is today."
Davids eventually made his way to England almost ten years later, featuring in 40 Premier League matches for Tottenham Hotspur during the final phase of his playing career.