New Delhi: Nemanja Vidic, one of Manchester United’s greatest defenders, has revealed an unexpected twist in his transfer journey before arriving at Old Trafford. The Serbian centre-back, renowned for his resilience and leadership, disclosed that he initially agreed to join Serie A side Fiorentina before his eventual move to Manchester United under Sir Alex Ferguson.In a recent interview, Nemanja Vidic shared how his transfer to Manchester United nearly didn’t happen. He had initially agreed to join Fiorentina but was swayed by interest from Liverpool before ultimately signing for United in 2006.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Vidic shared, “I had agreed a deal to go to Fiorentina. In life, when people start speaking good about you, a lot of people find interest.
Then came Liverpool, and after that, Manchester United.” Despite agreeing to terms with Fiorentina, interest from English clubs changed the course of his career, with Manchester United securing his services in January 2006 for a fee of approximately €8.4m (£7m).
From Fiorentina to Old Trafford
Former Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidic has revealed that he had agreed a deal to join Fiorentina in 2006, before eventually being swayed by Sir Alex Ferguson. #Vidic #Fiorentina #MUFC #Inter #Transfers #SerieA #Calcio pic.twitter.com/vcSLVOnasR
— Football Italia (@footballitalia) December 27, 2024
Vidic’s performances with Red Star Belgrade and Spartak Moscow had already placed him on the radar of Europe’s top clubs. Fiorentina acted swiftly, reaching an agreement with the defender. However, delays due to non-EU player quotas hindered the move. During this period, both Liverpool and Manchester United expressed interest.
Ultimately, Manchester United’s offer and Ferguson’s vision convinced Vidic to join the Red Devils. Partnering with Rio Ferdinand, he became a defensive stalwart in one of the club’s most successful eras. Vidic helped United claim five Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy in 2008, becoming club captain in 2010.
The Serie A link revisited
Manchester United captain Nemanja #Vidic to play for Inter next season http://t.co/O651sH2iwt #FCIM pic.twitter.com/CldKf4TkdS
— Inter ⭐⭐ (@Inter) March 5, 2014
Interestingly, Vidic’s connection with Serie A came full circle later in his career. After leaving Manchester United in 2014, he joined Inter Milan, playing two seasons before retiring in 2016. His journey highlights the twists and turns of football transfers, where timing often determines destiny.
Reflecting on his career, Vidic credited Manchester United for shaping his legacy. However, his near move to Fiorentina offers a glimpse into a career path that almost looked very different.
In a recent interview, Nemanja Vidic shared how his transfer to Manchester United nearly didn’t happen. He had initially agreed to join Serie A club but was swayed by interest from Liverpool before ultimately signing for United in 2006. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
