Daniel De Rossi wanted to sign for Man Utd as World Cup winning Roma legend reveals he ‘loved’ them
ROMA legend Daniele de Rossi has revealed he wanted to sign for Premier League giants Manchester United.
The 36-year-old told Sky Sports Italy that if he ever thought about playing English football, he would have moved to either the Red Devils, Liverpool or Chelsea.
In an interview he told the Italian media outlet: ''I would have liked to play for Manchester United.
''I've always loved Man United since I was a kid.''
He retired from his professional football career in January.
De Rossi ended his playing days at South American outfit Boca Juniors.
He has also spoken about his plans to become the manager of Roma.
The defensive midfielder joined the Italian giants in 2000, making a total of 616 appearances for the club while he was there.
He was a key part of the squad, helping them attain two Copa Italia titles.
He was also an important player when it came to Italy coming out victorious in the 2006 World Cup.
On Roma, he told Sky Italia: ''I went on a football path is not unique, but rare. Playing 20 years on a team does not happen every day.
''I can't dream of the same thing if I become a coach, there are no coaches that last so long.
''I would like to coach Roma, but first I have to become a coach and to do it there is a growth path that all young coaches need.
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''In a few days I became from an old footballer to a young coach, I see things with a relaxation that you cannot afford as a footballer.
''I'd like to sit on that bench, but I'm in no hurry to make it happen tomorrow.
''I presume I hope it will happen: it will happen if I have become a good coach and not because I have been a very important player for Roma.''