Owen feels grateful to Benzema for reviving his career

CAIRO – 13 November 2017 : Former English striker Michael Owen revealed on Monday that Karim Benzema’s decision to join Real Madrid was the reason behind his transfer to Manchester United in 2009.

“Ferguson said that he wanted to sign Benzema and that I could only sign for Manchester United if he did not, which is what happened,” Owen told press on Monday.

In 2009, Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson tried to strengthen United’s attacking line by signing the promising French talent, Benzema, but the player decided to join Madrid, so Ferguson decided to sign Owen from Newcastle United.

Owen added, "I am grateful to Benzema for signing for Real Madrid, as if not, then I would not have played for Manchester United.”

Owen had three great seasons in Manchester. He won three titles with the club: 2011 Premier League title, 2010 Community Shield Award and 2010 League Cup title.

Owen wore Real Madrid’s shirt in 2004 and left the club after one season, as he couldn’t earn a place with Madrid’s starting eleven.