Manchester United: Leny Yoro explains his decision to turn down Real Madrid

Europe 07 November 2025 at 11:39

Joshua SOSSOU

News Editor

Red Devils defender Leny Yoro has revealed why he turned down Real Madrid in favor of joining Manchester United.

In the summer of 2024, Leny Yoro made the decision to join Manchester United on a five-year contract, with a transfer fee reportedly set at €62 million excluding bonuses. The move stirred plenty of debate, especially since Real Madrid had also shown serious interest in the young Frenchman. Recently, Yoro reflected on his early days at United and, in particular, his choice to turn down Real Madrid.

"I've never felt any regret. I know Manchester United, and I understand that sometimes you can have a bad season, but this club is top level—there’s no doubt about that. I was aware of the club’s project before I arrived. Of course, I couldn’t have expected to finish my first year in 15th place. But these are challenges you have to face. It wasn’t just Madrid or Manchester—many clubs were after me. I chose Manchester, and I’m truly happy about it. You have the club director, the coach, all the players—they’re all there to push you every day," the defender told The Telegraph.

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