Bayern Munich ace reveals phone call with Manchester United boss Mourinho

 

Bayern Munich defender Jerome Boateng has revealed he called Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho personally to turn down a move to Old Trafford.

 

Boateng emerged as a potential transfer target for United towards the end of the summer transfer window, as Mourinho desperately scrambled for a new centre-back.

 

The Germany international was free to leave Bayern in the summer but failed to secure a move to Paris Saint-Germain before staying with the Bundesliga giants.

 

United were reluctant to pursue Boateng due to his age and injury-hit record but the 30-year-old has now revealed he turned down the Red Devils.

 

“I had enquiries from Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United, and I considered them both,” the former Manchester City centre-back told German outlet Bild, via Sky Sports.

 

“Not because I wanted to leave Bayern Munich by all means. It was no escape, but rather the thrill of a new challenge. I feel completely contented at Bayern – one of the biggest clubs in the world.

 

“I phoned Jose Mourinho and told him that his interest honoured me and thanked him [for trying so hard to try and bring me to United]. I explained to him my reasons for not joining.

 

“It’s difficult to leave FC Bayern. Everything has to fall in place to top this club, if I do it. [Bayern Munich boss] Niko Kovac gave me the feeling that I am very important for him and the club.”

 

Bayern Munich ace reveals phone call with Manchester United boss Mourinho

 

 

Boateng has played every minute of Bayern’s opening two league games and also started Germany’s 0-0 draw with world champions France during the international break.

 

Since the start of the 2015/16 campaign, Boateng has only featured in 42.8% of the available minutes in the Bundesliga for Bayern.