MANCHESTER UNITED reportedly rejected the chance to bring Graham Potter to Old Trafford… TWICE.
The 47-year-old was announced as new Chelsea head coach yesterday after Thomas Tuchel was ruthlessly sacked by owner Todd Boehly.
But things could have been very different for the ex-Brighton boss.
United were twice encouraged to move for Potter, once when Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was sacked, and again while searching for a permanent replacement during Ralf Rangnick’s turbulent tenure.
That’s according to The Athletic, who say the Red Devils turned down the chance to hold talks with Potter on both occasions.
His lack of Champions League experience was ultimately the reason United chose not to try and poach him from the Seagulls.
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Potter led Brighton to a ninth-place finish last season, and has left them currently in fourth after six games.
Yet that pedigree was not enough to tempt United, who instead swooped for Erik ten Hag, a man with no Premier League experience.
Chelsea on the other hand were quick to make their move for Potter after relieving Tuchel of his duties.
Blues owner Boehly wanted someone who can be in the dugout long-term, as he looks to move away from the fire and rehire tactic used in the Roman Abramovich era.
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Potter has been handed a five-year contract at Stamford Bridge.
He said: “I am incredibly proud and excited to represent Chelsea FC, this fantastic football club.
“I am very excited to partner with Chelsea’s new ownership group and look forward to meeting and working with the exciting group of players and to develop a team and culture that our amazing fans can be proud of.
“I would also like to place my sincere thanks to Brighton & Hove Albion for allowing me this opportunity and in particular Tony Bloom and all the players, staff and supporters for their continued support during my time at the club.”
While Boehly said: “We are thrilled to bring Graham to Chelsea.
“He is a proven coach and an innovator in the Premier League who fits our vision for the Club.
“Not only is he extremely talented on the pitch, he has skills and capabilities that extend beyond the pitch which will make Chelsea a more successful Club.
“He has had a major impact at his previous Clubs and we look forward to his positive impact at Chelsea.
“We look forward to supporting him, his coaching team and the squad in realising their full potential in the coming months and years.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
