Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski has opened up on why his transfer to Manchester United was blocked back in 2012.
In a recent episode of the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, the Polish superstar shed light on why a move to Manchester United in 2012 never materialised, despite his willingness to join the club.
The striker, who was then playing for Borussia Dortmund, had been personally approached by Sir Alex Ferguson during his legendary tenure as manager of the Red Devils.
Robert Lewandowski
Over 700 Goals for Club + Country 😱
Put some Respect on this guys name as one of the All Time Greats!Ps what a guy also… thanks for your time @lewy_official 👏🏽⚽️ pic.twitter.com/VONTnb3A15
— Rio Ferdinand (@rioferdy5) November 20, 2024
Lewandowski’s ‘Nervous’ Phone Call with Sir Alex
Reflecting on the moment, Lewandowski revealed the nerves he felt leading up to the phone call with Ferguson, a manager widely regarded as one of the greatest in football history.
“I remember one conversation with Sir Alex Ferguson. That was 2012,” said Lewandowski. “I knew he was going to call me before pre-season. I was very nervous.
“I knew what I should tell him. Of course, I wanted to join Manchester United. When Sir Alex Ferguson calls you, you cannot say no.”
“I said YES to Join” 😲
Robert Lewandowski could’ve played with Rio Ferdinand at #MUFC
CC: @rioferdy5, @lewy_official
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At the time, Lewandowski was a 23-year-old rising star who had just scored 30 goals in all competitions during a breakout season with Dortmund.
At the time, Ferguson was building a squad for his final season, which culminated in a Premier League title win.
“I was happy at Dortmund,” he admitted. “But Manchester United, at that time, were at the prime of Manchester United.”
The addition of a young, goal-hungry Lewandowski could have added even more firepower to an already formidable lineup featuring Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney.
Dortmund’s Refusal to Sell
Despite Lewandowski’s enthusiasm and willingness to make the switch, the move ultimately fell through.
The striker recounted how Dortmund’s president shut down the transfer, deeming him indispensable to the German side.
“The president of Dortmund said they needed me,” Lewandowski explained. “They were not going to sell me to Manchester United because I was so important for them. It wasn’t the perfect time.”
Dortmund’s decision proved pivotal, as Lewandowski went on to enjoy a sensational career with the club, scoring 103 goals in 187 appearances before making an eventual move to Bayern Munich.
There, he solidified his place as one of the greatest strikers of his generation, breaking records and winning multiple Bundesliga titles and the Champions League.
