full-back Diogo Dalot has admitted he turned down a permanent move to AC Milan in order to fight for his place at Old Trafford.
The 23-year-old spent a season on loan at the San Siro in the 2020/21 season and he impressed for the Serie A giants, making 33 appearances in all competitions.
The Rossoneri were keen on making Dalot’s move a permanent one and was willing to let the Portugal international leave, having spent £50million on Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
But the Norwegian’s departure has been a blessing for Dalot, who was promoted to first choice under when the German took interim charge last November.
Dalot has kept his spot under Erik ten Hag and the Dutchman was even willing to sell Wan-Bissaka in the transfer window, such was his happiness with the former Porto ace.
But Dalot’s future at the club was far from certain just 18 months ago following his return from Milan on loan.
The Italians were keen on signing the full-back on a permanent deal but Dalot has revealed that he rejected a move to the San Siro in order to fight for his place at the Theatre of Dreams.
‘Milan are a great club and I loved the season with the Rossoneri,’ said Dalot.
‘But it (transfer) wasn’t just up to me. In the end I decided to stay at United and it was the right decision.
‘If I’m a better defender I owe it to Milan. Italian football is different from the and I had to adapt in just one year and playing in has helped me a lot.
‘Over the past two years here in Manchester, the minutes have increased and, consequently, so has self-esteem.’
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