Samir Nasri has admitted that he was interested in joining Manchester United before making the switch to cross-city rivals Manchester City from Arsenal, but failed to be captivated by Sir Alex Ferguson’s “speech” to convince him to sign.
The midfielder has played a key role in Manchester City’s title triumphs in 2012 and 2014 since joining for £25m in 2011, whilst also helping City to the Capital One Cup in 2014. However, it turns out that Nasri could have been playing for the red half of Manchester, but decided to snub United after a secret meeting with Ferguson.
In an interview with beIN Sports, the Frenchman revealed that he was not prepared to “go to war” with Arsene Wenger.
“We met with Sir Alex in Paris, in a hidden place, out of sight, so as not to fuel the rumours.
“But there was one thing that was a problem; I was asked to go to war with Arsenal to be able to join. I could not see myself doing it, especially with Arsene Wenger.
“Manchester City was the first club to show interest. I had some doubts about the evolution of the club, but then they were about to sign Aguero and there was already Silva, Balotelli, Tevez.
“Mancini called me every day during the holidays. I then decided that they really wanted me.
“I had a discussion with my agents. They asked me if I wanted to make history or be a player like any other at United.
“I said "Go ahead". I won the title in my first season, so my choice was the right one.”
