Legendary former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed that he wanted to sign Roma legend Francesco Totti during his time at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils will welcome Roma to Old Trafford on Thursday for the first-leg Europa League semi-final clash.
Ferguson, who retired from football management in 2013, amassed an incredible 38-trophy haul with United during his 26 years at the Premier League club.
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The iconic Scotsman also managed an abundance of world-class talent at United, including the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, Nemanja Vidic and Eric Cantona.
Speaking ahead of the Europa League semi-final, Ferguson said he fell short of recruiting the services of Totti as the Italian hero didn't want to leave Roma and was "deeply attached to his city."
The 79-year-old told Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport: "We liked the player and we would have liked to include him in our plans, but when we expressed our interest, it immediately became clear that Totti didn't want to leave Rome.
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"He was deeply attached to his city. His CV is clear. Totti has, in his career, only worn the Roma shirt."
The 44-year-old Italian's 25-year senior career at the Serie A club saw him make a staggering 785 appearances as he scored 307 times and registered 184 assists.
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Totti also lifted a Serie A title, two Coppa Italias and two Italian Super Cups with Roma, as well as capturing the 2006 World Cup trophy with Italy.
Despite not signing for United, Totti did play at Old Trafford while Ferguson was in charge at the Red Devils.
Unfortunately for Totti, United thrashed Roma 7-1 in the second-leg Champions League quarter-final clash in 2007.
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Speaking on United's performance against Roma, Ferguson admitted: "Each player played his best music and, together, they composed a wonderful symphony.
"I immediately had the feeling that I was experiencing one of those nights that rarely happens in the life of a coach."
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Ferguson also revealed that former Roma manager Luciano Spalletti accepted his invitation for a drink post-match, despite United thrashing his side
"I was pleased that Spalletti accepted the invitation, despite the result and the elimination," he said.
"He came to my office for our drink and the fact that he showed up, keeping his promise, was a demonstration of a strong personality.
"I can imagine it wasn't easy for him to toast me, but he didn't back down, like a true sportsman."
Featured Image Credit: PA/YouTubeTopics: Football, Manchester United, Sir Alex Ferguson, Serie A, Roma, Premier League, England, Italy, Francesco Totti