After four years of trying, Sir Alex Ferguson signed Jesper Blomqvist to Manchester United.
The former Sweden winger joined Old Trafford from Italian club Parma in the summer of 1998.
However, he later claimed that the Red Devils had been interested in signing him for several seasons before he made the transfer.
Blomqvist eventually joined the club, just in time for the most successful season in their history.
Reflecting on his departure in 2020, he told the UTD Podcast: “[Carlo] Ancelotti was fired [at Parma], and they hired a new coach, and I wasn’t sure if he truly wanted me.
“This happened during the summer break, and Sir Alex came in again for me.
“He didn’t simply pick one player; he pursued me for four years. I got the impression he was searching for more than just a left-midfielder; he wanted me.
Read Also:Pressure On Ancelotti As Brazil Expect Decision ‘By Next Week’
“I felt incredibly strongly, even though I knew the competition from Giggsy [Ryan Giggs] would be really tough. But I knew he’d been staring at me for four years, so I knew he wanted me, not just any left-footed midfielder.
“It was hard to leave Italy, but, in the end, it was the best decision I ever made!”
Blomqvist had a wonderful debut season in England, helping United win the treble.
Under Ferguson, they became the first English team to win the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League in the same season.
Blomqvist’s achievement demonstrated that he made the right decision by waiting to make the move.
Asked if he wished he had joined the Red Devils sooner, he said: “No not really, not with the way it turned out.”
COMMENTS