'Manchester United wanted Karim Benzema, not me'

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Lewis Ambrose·13 November 2017

Former England striker Michael Owen has revealed Manchester United actually wanted to sign Karim Benzema back in 2009.

Just 21 at the time, Benzema chose to sign for Real Madrid in a €35m move from Olympique Lyon.

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However, he was also Manchester United’s first choice, Owen says.

As the French striker headed for the Santiago Bernabéu, United launched plan B and Owen joined the club from Newcastle.

"Thank you @Benzema" ? @themichaelowen #CFC pic.twitter.com/JCxxF3YYKT
– Sunday, 12 November 2017

Owen’s career at Old Trafford saw him feature heavily as a substitute but he did score 17 times in 52 appearances during his three-year stay.

Nobody will ever forget Owen’s stoppage time winner in the 2009 Manchester derby and he even left Old Trafford with a Premier League winners’ medal.