In a recent interview, former Manchester United star Paul Ince fondly recalled an unforgettable experience when he was about to move to Inter Milan (Inter). It was a decision about loyalty, understanding and professional pursuit, and the experience profoundly influenced his career.
According to Ince, a phone call from Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson broke the calm at a crucial moment when he was about to sign a contract with Inter Milan. At the time, Ince was in the kitchen of his home with Inter president Moratti and others for final negotiations, and Ferguson's call certainly made the atmosphere delicate.
"I was preparing to sign with Inter when the phone rang," recalled Ince, "My wife answered the phone and told me it was the manager. I answered the phone and Ferguson's voice was full of sincerity and reluctance. He said, 'Look, I'm on vacation right now, but I've been thinking about it and I really don't want you to leave Manchester United.'"
Ferguson's retention was overflowing as he continued, "I know there are young players in the team such as Nicky Butt, but you are only 28 years old and at the peak of your career. I sincerely hope you can stay and continue to play for Manchester United." In the face of Ferguson's affectionate retention, Ince's heart is full of contradictions and struggles.
However, the final decision was motivated by a concern for career progression. Ince opened up to Ferguson about his situation and informed him of the fact that the Inter president and others were waiting at home to sign the contract. He explained, "I told Ferguson that they had accepted the offer from the start and that I had made up my mind to go to Inter for a new challenge."
Despite the decision to leave, the bond between Ince and Ferguson has not been broken. He said: "We've always kept in touch. I've been to his house, played snooker together and we got on very, very well. It was always a great pleasure to spend time with him and he always gave me valuable advice whenever I was coaching."
