Sadio Mane reveals that he rebuffed an offer from Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho before signing for Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool.
In late June, Senegalese winger Sadio Mane completed a £34 million switch from Southampton to Liverpool. Reds boss Jurgen Klopp, who was in dire need of attacking options, reportedly saw off interest from rivals Manchester United to get his man.
Before signing Henrikh Mkhitaryan from Borussia Dortmund, United manager Jose Mourinho was said to be interested in bringing Mane to Old Trafford and reportedly tabled an offer for the Southampton star.
Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Mane confirmed that he snubbed Manchester United in favour of Liverpool because he would get the opportunity to work under German tactician Jurgen Klopp.
“Yes, it [Mourinho’s interest] was true,” said the Senegal international. “There was interest from a lot of clubs, not just Manchester United, but as soon as I knew Liverpool were interested I just felt it was the right club with the right coach. It was right for me to come here.
“Liverpool are a massive club with a big history that has won many trophies over the years and as soon as I was told of the possibility to come here and I knew the manager wanted me I said yes.
“It was the right move. I recognise the size of the club and to progress to another level as a player this was the club and the moment for me. It was a step I needed to make.”
Signing for the Reds made Mane the most expensive African football player on the planet — an accolade that brings with it its own pressure. Liverpool could really benefit with Mane’s pace and aggression as their wide men have often failed to maintain consistency and fitness. The Senegalese may not have come to Anfield with a clean bill of health, but would certainly be an upgrade to the current crop of wingers at Liverpool.
Mane is expected to take the field for the Reds on Wednesday as they step up their preparations for the upcoming Premier League season with a friendly against Antonio Conte’s Chelsea side in the International Champions Cup.