Menez: Manchester United wanted to sign me when I was 17

Jun 14, 2012 12:25:00 PM

The Paris Saint-Germain winger had the opportunity to join the Red Devils when he was a teenager but ultimately decided to sign professional terms with Sochaux

Jeremy Menez has revealed that Sir Alex Ferguson made a lasting impression on him when he discussed a potential move to Old Trafford with the Manchester United boss eight years ago.

The France international was just a teenager and had yet to sign professional terms with Sochaux when he met the legendary Scottish manager.

Menez admits he was quite taken with both United and their straight-talking coach, but insists he does not regret his decision to reject a move to the Premier League giants.

"It was a pleasure," the 25-year-old winger told L'Equipe. "I had watched Manchester United on television. This is a club with a great coach and great players, and I was flattered that they were interested in me.

"In Mr. Ferguson's office, there was much talk. But I didn't talk much, I just listened to Ferguson. He told me what he expected of me and spoke about money. He doesn't beat about the bush!

"But it was too early for me to go abroad. You tell yourself that it may be now or never. But in such circumstances, one must remain calm.

"I had only been at Sochaux for three years and I was not in a hurry to leave."

Menez ultimately left the club in 2006 for Monaco but after a subsequent stint with Serie A outfit Roma, he is now plying his trade in the French capital with Paris Saint-Germain.

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