The player left Old Trafford on transfer deadline day…
New West Bromwich Albion signing Darren Fletcher has revealed that Louis van Gaal didn’t want him to leave Manchester United.
SEE MORE
Manchester United Transfer News
(Images) Man United Stars Post Instagram Tributes to Exiting Midfielder Darren Fletcher
Done Deal: West Brom Sign Darren Fletcher From Manchester United
The Scot arrived at the Hawthorns on a free transfer on Monday, and signed a two year deal with Tony Pulis’ side. The 31-year-old had only made 11 appearances for the Red Devils this season before his move, and left Old Trafford in order to get more game time.
The midfielder had been at United since he was just 12-years-old, and mentioned the need for a new challenge as also being behind the deal.
Before the transfer his manager apparently made it clear that he would like Fletcher to stay, but respected his wishes to depart.
“Manchester United are a fantastic club and I’ve got so many great memories there but I feel it’s time for a new challenge for me,” Fletcher told talkSPORT.
“I haven’t had as many games as I would like this season and, after everything I’ve been through, I’m a professional football player. I want to play football and hopefully I can do that at West Brom. They’ve given me the opportunity to do that.
“I’m leaving Manchester United but I’ve got so many happy memories and got to know so many great people there I’m leaving with a smile on my face.
“I spoke to the manager [Louis van Gaal] about not playing as much as I wanted and the club didn’t really want me to go but they respected my wishes.”
A former favourite of Sir Alex Ferguson, the Scotland international leaves Man Utd with a boatload of medals. He has five Premier League titles, one FA Cup, two League Cups, and a Champions League title to his name.