Roy Keane explains why it wasn’t a difficult decision to reject Real Madrid to stay at Manchester United.
When it comes to the greatest Manchester United captains, Roy Keane is up there with the very best.
For 12 years, the former Republic of Ireland international was the driving force in Sir Alex Ferguson’s midfield.
Keane would leave Old Trafford under a grey cloud following a fallout with Sir Alex Ferguson, but United fans still remember him as an icon who led by example in midfield.
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Roy Keane reflects on snubbing Real Madrid
Keane had chances to leave United during his prime.
The Irishman wasn’t afraid to ask for bigger contracts during his time at United, which prompted transfer speculation.
On a new podcast with SALT, Keane was asked about not moving his career abroad.
“Do you know what the simple answer is? I was really happy and contented at United and I know and I don’t mean in the comfort zone because you can get in the comfort zone and be afraid of challenges,” Keane said.
“But when I looked at teams like Bayern, so I could have gone to Juventus or Real Madrid at the end, but when you’re happy with the challenges around you…
“I remember United most seasons, we didn’t always win, but I always felt we were competing. That was enough for me.”
Along with Ferguson, Keane held the highest of standards at United. It undoubtedly helped the manager to have such a character to win battles on the pitch.
- ⚡️ NEWS IN BRIEF
- Roy Keane turned down the chance to sign for Bayern Munich, Juventus and Real Madrid
- The Irishman was happy at Manchester United where there was no shortage of competition
- Keane doesn’t regret his decision not to take his career across Europe
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Roy Keane’s brief time at Celtic
Keane’s time at Celtic was brief, lasting just six months.
The former United captain left Old Trafford in November 2005 and became a free agent.
That changed when Celtic offered Keane an 18-month contract.
Keane made 10 league appearances and scored one goal against Falkirk.
Despite having a year left on his contract, Keane announced his retirement due to a chronic hip injury that had plagued him for years.
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