Debuchy ‘annoyed’ with Wenger for blocking United move

Daniel Storey

Mathieu Debuchy says he was denied a move to Manchester United as Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger did not want to “sell to a rival”.

Debuchy was made available for loan by Arsenal during the January transfer window, and was linked with moves to both Aston Villa and Sunderland. He eventually joined Bordeaux until the end of the season, but was the subject of reported interest from United.

Not only has Debuchy confirmed that interest, he also says that Wenger blocked the move.

“I was disappointed, obviously. If I had the chance to go to Manchester United it would have been magnificent,” Debuchy told Canal+.

“Unfortunately it wasn’t the case. I discussed it with the coach too, who said that obviously he couldn’t help out a rival.

“Yes, I’m a little bit annoyed with him. It’s his choice.”

Why on earth were United after Debuchy in January, given that he had proven himself incapable of holding down a position at Arsenal?

“I came back well this summer, I had a good pre-season,” Debuchy continued.

“I was able to talk to him to know my future at Arsenal. He said that I would have game time and that we would discuss it in December. Unfortunately, I didn’t have this game time.”

Indeed Mathieu. It’s because you’re nowhere near as good as Hector Bellerin.