"The best choice for the player I am today" - PL star explains why he chose to join current club despite interest from Manchester United
Amadou Onana has revealed why decided to join Aston Villa despite interest from Manchester United. The Belgian has completed a £50 million move to Villa Park from Everton.
Onana was also on the Red Devils' radar as manager Erik ten Hag looked for a replacement for the aging Casemiro. Onana has now revealed why he decided to join Villa despite being pursued by United.
Aston Villa, courtesy of their top-four Premier League finish last season, will play in the UEFA Champions League in the 2024-25 season. Onana pointed out that the club's current position showcases that the project is on the right path.
Speaking to Belgian outlet La Derniere Heure, he said (via Mirror):
"I think that's where [Aston Villa] I should be. And for me, Aston Villa is part of the top of English football. The ranking speaks for itself and is significant. The general public may think that it is not the most glamorous club but it was the best choice for the player I am today."
Onana, 22, is one of the best young defensive midfielders in English football at the moment. Despite being linked with clubs like Manchester United and Arsenal, Onana's decision to join Villa could turn out to be a wise one.
The Birmingham outfit are on an upward surge under the tutelage of Unai Emery. The level of expectation would also be lower at Villa compared to United, meaning Onana would have more room to develop with less pressure.
Manchester United looking to bolster their defensive midfield through Manuel Ugarte signing: Reports
Manchester United have already completed two summer signings, Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro. They are looking to rope in yet another high-profile player in Manuel Ugarte.
The Paris Saint-Germain midfielder joined the Ligue 1 giants last summer for £51 million. He is currently rated at £59 million and is United's priority target as a summer signing.
As per Daily Mail, the Red Devils, having already made two signings, would need to sell before spending more in the market. Hence, despite agreeing on personal terms, they are yet to make an offer for the Uruguayan.