After the misguided reports surrounding his departure from the Bundesliga, Henrikh Mkhitaryan has revealed why he really left Borussia Dortmund for Premier League giants Manchester United.
'Griezmann Knows He Won't Fit In At Man Utd'
The Armenian captain has been attacked in the media and by some fans after leaving the German side for the riches of the English game.
The 28-year-old came out this week to dismiss these claims and said his decision was purely based on the challenge he would have had ahead of him.
"United might not have been my dream club to begin with, but they have always been among the best clubs in the world for me," Mkhitaryan told Sport Bild.
"Manchester United are a bigger club than Borussia Dortmund, everyone knows that and we should just accept that. It was a new challenge for me that I could not turn down..
"I find it hard to understand criticism that I joined United for the money. That is simply wrong.
"Had it all been about money for me, I would have left Shakhtar Donetsk for Anzhi Makhachkala rather than Borussia Dortmund (in 2013).
"But that was not what I wanted. I wanted to keep on developing.
"My decision to leave Dortmund was not a decision against the club. It was just time for a new challenge."
Footballers Following In Their Father's Footsteps
Mkhitaryan has made 21 appearances for the Red Devils this season and has scored five goals, while assisting in four more in all competitions.
Do you think Mkhitaryan made the right move by coming to England? Have your say in the comments section below.
