Manchester United flop Radamel Falcao says he does not regret his season-long loan move at Old Trafford in 2014/15.
The Colombian striker arrived at Man United in a shock transfer deadline day move from AS Monaco. The deal was a loan move but most expected it to be made permanent at the end of the season. Instead, Falcao flopped.
He scored just four goals in his year under Louis van Gaal, who chose not to sign him permanently before the end of the season. Falcao had come off the back of a serious knee injury and failed to replicate the stunning form at Atletico Madrid and FC Porto, when he was the best striker in the world.
However, Falcao says he "had a learning moment at Manchester United." Speaking to Hola Colombia, the 29-year-old said, "The move came shortly after my knee injury and my surgery, but I got the chance to play alongside some great players."
Falcao was helped by Manchester United
"I did not get the playing time and consistency I was looking for, but my time at United helped me grow," Falcao said. "It made me stronger, prepared me for the future and become more consistent."
Having failed in the Premier League at United, many expected Falcao to return to Spain, France or Portugal but Jose Mourinho snapped him up for Chelsea, hoping to see him get back to what he was before his injury, a stunningly prolific striker.
It has been another season-long loan deal from Monaco, who are struggling for money, hence trying to rid of their star. He has struggled again, not making an impact and looking far off the pace. Falcao remains positive though.
Falcao confident he will succeed at Chelsea
"Chelsea showed faith in me and opened their doors for me," he continued.
"But it has been complicated for me so far because the team hasn't started in the best way while I have not had the opportunities I want either. I am confident that I will get my chances in the second half of the season and succeed in the end," Falcao added.
He was, strangely, a fan favourite at Old Trafford despite not making an impact or scoring. His determination to succeed and the amount of effort he put in to do so was appreciated so United fans will be happy to hear that he enjoyed his time at the club.