Martin Svidersky appeared to be one of the hottest prospects ready to come off the Manchester United conveyor belt of young talent but opted to snub the chance to work under Erik ten Hag.
Instead, the defensive midfielder chose to ply his trade for La Liga outfit Almeria, where he is yet to earn a single minute of game-time so far this term. The 20-year-old spent three seasons on the books of the Red Devils, but clearly had little interest in prolonging that stay for the reign of new boss Ten Hag.
The circumstances surrounding his surprise exit certainly can't be blamed on United, with the Manchester Evening News reporting back in June that the club were willing to offer Svidersky a new deal.
United did manage to pocket a small compensation package in recognition of their help in developing the player, but Svidersky walked out of Old Trafford as a free agent.
The Slovakian Under-21 international actually confirmed his exit while still employed by the Red Devils.
Speaking to RTVS in the summer, Svidersky explained: "I have spent the last days in Spain, where my steps will continue. They will follow in the first Spanish league, La Liga. I have high expectations, it will be a new experience, a new country."
If the early signs are anything to go by, his expectations should be lowered, and quickly, given he has been an unused substitute in the last eight Almeria league fixtures.
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Prior to that, he wasn't even named in the match-day squad. That may have been down to fitness, with injuries playing a significant part in Svidersky's story - weeks before his United switch, he injured his ACL, MCL and meniscus, requiring significant surgery before heading to England.
He has recently discussed his Old Trafford departure and explained his need for personal development over the fame that comes with being a United player.
"I experienced a lot of nice moments in Manchester, but also difficult moments. They definitely strengthened me and taught me a lot. I tried to use every second," Svidersky told Flashscore.
"I think I made the most of my time. It's true that I didn't manage to fulfil the dream I came for was very close but I chose a different path.
"I prioritised personal development over 'fame'. I met great people who I have stayed in touch with. Thank you also for my second parents from Manchester who have already come to visit me in Spain."
On paper, Svidersky and Ten Hag would have been a match made in heaven given the Dutchman's track record of integrating young talent into the first-team. At Ajax, he helped the development of the likes of Frenkie de Jong and Jurrien Timber - two players he wanted to bring to Old Trafford last summer.
United's fellow big-six rivals Chelsea and Liverpool were both interested in Svidersky's signature before he arrived at Old Trafford. Interest from English clubs has been a constant theme of his short career, having had trials at both Manchester City and West Ham.
