Emre Can Says He “Would Never Play” for Manchester United

Emre Can of Borussia Dortmund in Mrach. Photo by Alex Gottschalk/DeFodi Images via Getty Images

Many soccer players around the world would love to play for Manchester United, but German midfielder Emre Can isn’t one of them. In a recent chat with German outlet Sport Bild, Can said that he “would never play” for United as he remains loyal to his former club Liverpool.

Can spent four seasons with Liverpool before departing for Seria A giants Juventus in 2018. After an underwhelming season and a half in Italy, he had the opportunity to sign with United in January. The move didn’t go through as the German midfielder opted to join Bundesliga powerhouse Borussia Dortmund.

“I would never play for United because of my time at Liverpool,” said Can. “My heart would not allow it. The rivalry between those clubs is huge.”

The 26-year-old also didn’t think there is much difference between Manchester and Borussia in terms of appeal.

“I see no reason to put United above Dortmund,” he added. “Not from a sporting side and not because of appeal.”

The decision to join Borussia proved to be the right move for Emre Can, as he became an important piece in the team’s midfield and arguably got his career back on track. Can also helped Dortmund to remain in the title race, as the club is just four points short of the first place.

Meanwhile, Manchester United shifted its interest in one of Can’s teammates. United is reportedly keen on Borussia’s wunderkind Jadon Sancho and will make a strong push to sign the 20-year-old winger in the summer. They will have strong competition, however, as Sancho is also linked with Liverpool, Chelsea, and PSG.

Ben loves sports so much but prefers watching other people do it. He prefers not to share what teams he's supporting but he is willing to admit that Lebron James is, in fact, the king.