Lionel Messi to choose Manchester United over Manchester City? Reports make Huge Claims

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Lionel Messi has been linked with a move to Manchester City in the January Transfer Window. As per reports, the Argentine has been urged to join the club by Pep Guardiola.

Manchester City are currently struggling in the Premier League. Their season has derailed heavily as they currently sit 7th in the table, with just one win in last 12 matches.

But amid the Man City transfer rumours, recent reports from The Athletic, cited by the Daily Mirror, suggest that Messi was 'more charmed' by the legacy and prestige of traditional footballing institutions like Manchester United than by the financial clout of clubs like Manchester City.

United's record as 20-time English champions would have offered Messi a compelling reason to prefer the Red Devils in the past if he had ever considered moving to England during his prime.

Sir Alex Ferguson, Manchester United's legendary manager, reportedly had his eye on a young Messi when the Argentine was just 20 years old. At the time, Messi was already making waves at Barcelona, but Ferguson's interest hinted at the potential of a sensational transfer. However, Messi quickly quashed any rumors, expressing his contentment at Barcelona.

"I'm happy in Barcelona. Why wouldn't I be? I've realized my dream. It's the best club in the world with the best players. My family are happy here; they like it," Messi stated.

Still, Ferguson's interest showed that United were proactive in pursuing the world's best talents. Had Messi joined the Red Devils, the club's trajectory might have looked very different, particularly in their Champions League campaigns.

Why Messi may choose Man United Over Man City?

Although Manchester City's financial might and tactical allure under Pep Guardiola made them a strong contender, Messi's preference for clubs with deep-rooted history and tradition could have given United the edge. As one of the most iconic clubs in football, United's legacy, passionate global fanbase, and historic achievements might have resonated more deeply with the Argentine superstar than City's more modern appeal.

But will the Argentina star be looking forward to joining Manchester United right now? That leaves a huge question mark itself. Man United have already sacked their manager Erik Ten Hag this season. The replacement Bruno Amorim hasn't fare well either as the Red Devils have lost five out of their last seven matches across all competitions.