Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand talks to reporters during a meeting with fans at the English Premier League Asia trophy tour in Jakarta June 30, 2011. REUTERS/Beawiharta
CAIRO_9 April 2020: Former Manchester United captain, Rio Ferdinand, revealed that he was close to join Barcelona in 2008 but he decided to stay in Manchester.
"It came close. There were discussions with my agent, Barca had touched base. I'd spoken to Riijkard, not about going there but he made his feelings known." Ferdinand said.
Ferdinand joined Manchester United in 2002 from Leeds United and stayed with the club till 2014 when he left to join QPR for one season before retirement.
Ferdinand added "It was actually after the game in Barcelona where we drew 0-0, in the tunnel after the game I spoke to him."
Manchester United met Barcelona in 2008 UEFA Champions League semi-finals. The first leg in Barcelona ended with a goalless draw while the second leg in Manchester ended with a 1_0 win for the hosts who won the title at the end after defeating Chelsea at the final.
Ferdinand continued "I was lucky and fortunate to find a great club in Manchester United where it was going to be almost impossible for me to leave."
Ferdinand was among Man United squad who lost UEFA Champions League final in 2009 and 2011 to Barcelona.
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