Ander Herrera claims the Manchester United board failed to convince him enough of his “importance within the squad” amid contract talks at the club, which led to his free transfer to Paris Saint Germain.
The 29-year-old Spaniard signed a five-year deal with the French champions last week after his previous contract at Old Trafford expired on July 1.
The Spain international signed for United from Athletic Club in 2014 and quickly became a favourite due to his tenacious style of play and passion shown on the pitch.
Herrera played 189 matches for United in all competitions, scoring 20 goals, while also winning the FA Cup, Carabao Cup and Europa League at the club.
It is understood that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wished to keep the midfielder ahead of the 2019-20 season, but as Goal revealed on Thursday, United were not willing to meet his £350,000-per-week demands.
And during his first interview as a PSG player, Herrera has conceded that certain reassurances over his position and importance were not forthcoming, which is why he decided to leave.
“I don’t like looking at the past but there were differences regarding the project and my importance within it,” he told Marca . “I was very happy, I have a lot to thank the club for, the fans and also Solskjaer.
“He did a lot for me to stay, but things didn’t happen. They arrived late and, by then, I’d already made the decision to play in Paris.”
Herrera was restricted to 22 Premier League games last campaign amid persistent injury problems, but he was still a standout performer in the team.
Looking back on his time at the theatre of dreams, Herrera conceded winning the award was among his proudest moments, while also claiming he would never have joined another English club after five years in Manchester.
“It has been fantastic. In five years I have played 189 games and I s true that that the MVP (Sir Matt Busby Award) makes one feel special and very happy, I keep every moment that I have lived.
“Why PSG? Because to leave United, the biggest team in England, you need something like PSG, which is the biggest in France. I could not play in another English club”
