Man Utd star was set to RETIRE before transfer offer

Suraj Radia

• 28 Jul 2024 21:00 BST
• 3 min read

One of Manchester United’s shock signings has revealed that he was heading towards retirement before committing his future to the club this summer.

United spent more than €200 million on players last summer but found themselves in the midst of a defensive crisis early in pre-season, with a host of injuries to key defenders.

The situation led to United bringing in Jonny Evans on a short-term contract, with the veteran having left Leicester following their relegation from the Premier League, and he went onto sign a one-year deal at Old Trafford.

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After making 23 appearances last season, Evans signed another new contract with United this summer and admitted that he was likely set to end his career before signing his new deal.

"The fine details meant it took a bit longer than expected but I knew I wasn't going anywhere else," Evans said. "It was either stay here or probably retire.

"I was glad another season came available and the club wanted me to stay. I had a great time last season and I want to continue that."

Evans likely to fill in after Yoro injury

Evans came through United’s academy and made nearly 200 appearances in his first stint with the club before going on to join West Brom in 2015.

After eight seasons away from Old Trafford, Evans returned last summer amid much scrutiny from fans who criticised United for a ‘cheap’ depth signing instead of securing more high-profile defensive reinforcements.

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However, Evans became one of United’s most consistent performers in his appearances, filling in more than expected due to the fitness issues with players such as Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez.

The Northern Irish international could be forced to fill in again this season after seeing summer signing Leny Yoro pick up an injury in the pre-season fixture against Arsenal, along with striker Rasmus Hojlund.

"You don't want any injuries, especially in pre-season. That is one of the biggest things to try and avoid," Evans said.

"Muscle injuries aren’t good and Rasmus hinted it was his hamstring. I am not sure about Leny yet. Hopefully it’s not too bad."