Wayne Rooney reveals he “tried to sign” Manchester United’s best player in 2022 – “I thought I had him”

Wayne Rooney has revealed he once tried to sign a player many Manchester United fans now feel is one of the club’s very best under Rúben Amorim.

Rúben Amorim’s first few months as Manchester United manager have been more inconsistent than expected, with impressive wins against Arsenal and Manchester City overshadowed by erratic performances elsewhere.

Taking over with the team stuck in 14th place in the Premier League, Amorim has been unable to improve their position. United have also suffered early exits from both the Carabao Cup and FA Cup.

However, they remain the only side unbeaten across both the Europa League and Champions League, keeping hopes alive that winning the former could secure their return to Europe’s elite competition.

With the club facing severe financial difficulties, Champions League qualification via Europa League success would provide a vital financial boost, allowing for a much-needed squad overhaul in the summer.

Rooney’s admission about signing Amad

Prior to his injury, United forward Amad was the brightest spark at the club and was quickly establishing himself as one of Amorim’s best and most essential players.

However, prior to Amorim’s arrival, Amad had been vastly overlooked by former manager Erik ten Hag, and underwent multiple loans in his first few seasons at United before eventually breaking into the first team.

In January 2022, Amad joined Rangers on a six-month loan deal, but United legend Wayne Rooney has revealed that, at the time, the Ivorian international was very close to joining his Derby County side in the Championship.

“I think he’s been great,” Rooney said of Amad when speaking to club media. “I tried to sign him for Derby, when I was at Derby, on loan. I thought I had him, really. I think it was the next day, he went to Rangers out of the blue.”

However, Rooney appreciates the path Amad took as it has led him to become the player he is today.

“He has been fantastic, with the goals he’s scored, [his] creativity and work-rate. He’s been a breath of fresh air and, of course, we’d like a few more players to step up.”

Rooney appreciates the work Amorim is doing

Speaking further, Rooney also only had kind words to say about Amorim, explaining that he is a fan of how the Portuguese head coach has carried himself during a tough opening few months at United.

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“It’s been a difficult season, there’s no denying that, all season,” he continued.

“But the new manager has come in and I really like him. The way he handles himself and speaks with the media, he’s been really good.

“It’s probably more about getting through this season now and, hopefully, starting to implement his style more and getting players in to move the club forward.”

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