Patrice Evra has revealed that Louis van Gaal wanted him to be Manchester United captain had he stayed at the club.
The France international ended an illustrious career at Old Trafford after agreeing a move to Serie A champions Juventus on a two-year contract for an undisclosed fee.
The 33-year-old made a total 379 appearances for United and claims that new manager Van Gaal was keen to extend that stay.
Road to success: France international Evra will add experience and quality to Juventus’ defence
‘Manchester United wanted to keep me and they also wanted to give me the captain’s band,’ he reportedly said to Sky Sports.
‘Van Gaal was disappointed to see me go away, but I had already made a choice.’
Evra admits it was difficult to leave Manchester United, especially after then Juventus manager Antonio Conte resigned before his arrival.
‘It was really difficult to leave Man United, but I did it. I made my choice and I am really happy with my choice.’
‘I was really surprised when Antono Conte left. I was wondering why a coach who strongly wanted me would have left but in the end everyone is the owner of his own destiny. I a not angry with Conte but I am happy that I am with Juventus – a great club with a great history.’
Get him! Patrice Evra has urged new club Juventus to sign Portuguese winger Nani
Evra also urged his knew club to pursue their reported interest in Portugal winger Nani.
‘He is a great player and it was a privilege for me to play with Nani. If Juve are interested in him, I can only say that Nani would be a great purchase.’
And, the defender has admitted he is keen on playing alongside his former Manchester United team-mate Carlos Tevez once again.
The striker joined Juve from Manchester City last summer and scored 19 goals during his first season with the Bianconeri.
‘Carlos is a warrior,’ said Evra. ‘It was tough for me to see him leave United for another team. We’re great friends on and off the pitch.
Friends reunited: Patrice Evra will play alongside former Man United team-mate Carlos Tevez next season
Evra may not have been part of the Juve side that clinched three Serie A titles between 2012 and 2014, yet after making the ‘tough’ decision to swap England for Italy, he intends to play a key role in another successful defence.
The Frenchman said: ‘It won’t be easy to win four titles in a row. I managed to do it three times with Manchester United and know how difficult the challenge is.
‘We also hope to do well in the Champions League. It’s a great competition and we’ll look to go as far as we can.
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Source: Dailymail