Former Manchester United coach Rene Meulensteen has revealed that he recommended both Son Heung-min and Willian to his old club nearly a decade ago, but his advice was not heeded. Meulensteen encountered Willian while at Anzhi Makhachkala and immediately suggested him to United, but Chelsea swooped in and hijacked Tottenham’s deal. A few years later, Meulensteen was impressed by Spurs star Son and again recommended him to United, but his suggestion was ignored.
Speaking to Manchester United’s official Scandinavian supporters club, Meulensteen said: “It really annoys me a little bit because when Son just came to Tottenham so many years ago, I felt, after seeing him one or two seasons, this is the player United need to buy.” He continued: “Well I mentioned it. There was another one I recommended as well. When I left United I went to Anzhi in Russia with Guus Hiddink and then Guus left and I took over, and I had a really interesting squad with a lot of interesting individuals: Samuel Eto’o, Lassana Diarra, Christopher Samba was there… and Willian.”
Meulensteen explained that he had told David Moyes that Willian was a Manchester United fan and would be a great signing. However, Chelsea hijacked the deal and Willian has since been outstanding for them and now Fulham. The Dutch coach also believes that United should target Harry Kane over Victor Osimhen in their search for a new frontman, as Kane is a proven Premier League player who can guarantee 25 goals plus.