Former Arsenal star Emmanuel Petit reveals why he regrets choosing Chelsea over Manchester United in 2001 after considering his then wife’s desire to live in London.

• Listening to his wife’s preference: Emmanuel Petit admitted that he chose Chelsea over Manchester United.
• Reflecting on his decision, Petit acknowledged that he should have joined Manchester United, but he succumbed to his wife’s preference for London.
• Although he achieved success with Chelsea, winning the FA Cup and UEFA Super Cup, he often wonders how his career would have unfolded at Manchester United under the guidance of Ferguson.

Emmanuel Petit has revealed the regrets he holds regarding his decision to choose Chelsea over Manchester United in 2001.

Petit’s move to Chelsea came after listening to his then wife, Agathe de La Fontaine, who expressed a strong desire to live in London.

Having spent three successful years at Arsenal between 1997 and 2000, Petit had become a fan favourite at Highbury.

His impressive performances helped the Gunners clinch the 1998 Premier League title, making it a memorable year for the midfielder.

Additionally, Petit contributed to France’s triumph in the 1998 World Cup, further elevating his reputation in the football world.

Following his departure from Arsenal, Petit joined Barcelona for £7 million, but his time in Spain lasted only one season.

The opportunity to return to England arose, with Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United vying for his signature. Although he was not keen on returning to Arsenal, Petit was tempted by the prospect of playing under the guidance of Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United.

Reflecting on his choices, Petit likened the decision to divorcing someone who no longer desires you. He believed that if he didn’t feel wanted by Arsenal when he signed for Barcelona, there was no point in returning.

“I had many clubs interested in taking me back to England [in 2001],” Petit told FourFourTwo.

“Arsenal approached me but so did Manchester United. I spoke to Arsene.

“He really wanted me back, but I was honest with him: I said, ‘I appreciate it and it’s very tempting, but I didn’t feel that you wanted me to stay when I signed for Barcelona a year ago’.

“It’s like divorcing somebody: when you don’t feel desired by them, what’s the point of going back?”

Unfortunately for the Red Devils, Petit ultimately chose Chelsea due to his wife’s preference for London.

“I should have gone to Manchester United, because Sir Alex Ferguson called me twice,” Petit continued. “We had a very good conversation and it was tempting, but once again I listened to my wife.

“She wanted to go back to London – she didn’t want to live in Manchester – so I made the same mistake twice in one year.”

Although Petit achieved success during his time at Chelsea, winning the FA Cup and the UEFA Super Cup, he often wonders how his career would have unfolded at Manchester United.

Playing under the guidance of Sir Alex Ferguson and alongside some of the game’s greats could have offered him a different set of achievements.