Football

Victor Wanyama reflects on potential Manchester United move after stellar performances at Celtic

Former Harambee Stars captain, Victor Wanyama on Radio 47 on December 16, 2023 (Screengrab: Radio 47/Twitter)

By Sports Reporter | Tuesday, December 26, 2023

At the time, Wanyama was a burgeoning 21-year-old midfielder who had joined Celtic in 2011. Sky Sports also reported Manchester United's interest in Wanyama, confirming that Sir Alex Ferguson had indeed attended the match to scout the talented player.

Former Harambee Stars captain, Victor Wanyama, recently delved into a pivotal moment in his career, reflecting on a potential move to English Premier League giants Manchester United during his time with Scottish Premier League powerhouse Celtic.

In the summer of 2012, speculations were rife as Manchester United reportedly prepared a £10 million bid for the Kenyan midfielder. Wanyama's remarkable performances at Celtic had captured the attention of the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson.

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The breakthrough occurred during a momentous Champions League clash against Barcelona on November 7, 2012, at the Nou Camp Stadium. Wanyama made history by scoring the opening goal with a powerful header from a corner, giving The Bhoys a surprising lead.

Reminiscing about that unforgettable night on Radio47, Wanyama shared, "When I was at Celtic, I remember a breakthrough moment during a Champions League match against Barcelona. Sir Alex Ferguson came to watch that game…"

Victor Wanyama reveals how close he was to joining Manchester United from Celtic before Sir Alex Ferguson retired. #MikikiYaSpoti #HapaNdipo @VictorWanyama pic.twitter.com/5DYmMWcZSy
— Radio 47 (@Radio47KE) December 16, 2023

This encounter marked a potential turning point in Wanyama's career, with the tantalising prospect of joining Manchester United.

"Although we didn't have a conversation, he did meet with the club president, who later informed me that they had talked with Fergie about the possibility of me joining Manchester United. However, I'm not sure what ultimately happened, as that was the year when Ferguson left the club," explained Wanyama.

At the time, Wanyama was a burgeoning 21-year-old midfielder who had joined Celtic in 2011. Sky Sports also reported Manchester United's interest in Wanyama, confirming that Sir Alex Ferguson had attended the match to scout the talented player.