Peter Schmeichel believes he could have remained Manchester United’s first-choice goalkeeper into his forties if he had not kept his word to leave the club following their 1999 treble win.
His last game for United was one of celebration, as he enjoyed the thrill of victory after Teddy Sheringham and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer clinched the Champions League title for the club at the Camp Nou, an achievement that marked their first title in over three decades. At 36, he was a pivotal figure in United’s journey that season, which also included victories in the Premier League and FA Cup.
However, Schmeichel revealed in an interview with Kate Scott on CBS Sports’ “Kickin’ It” that Sir Alex Ferguson had asked him to return for preseason training immediately to prepare for a Champions League qualifier against LKS Lodz.
“I was going to go on holiday, and then I got a call from Sir Alex saying he wanted me back for training.”
While announcing in November 1998 that he would leave when his contract expired, he feels it was too late to retract that decision. “We already packed the house,” he noted. Yet, he now views that choice as misjudged.
“That was a silly decision. That was just stupid. Why would you leave Manchester United? I still had four more years left in me.”
He acknowledges he could have had substantial conversations with Ferguson about staying, especially considering his contributions.
“I should have spoken to him and said, ‘I want to play every game,’ but I also know I can’t do that at my age. Why would I leave Man United?”
Reflecting on his exit, Schmeichel discusses how pride played a role, stating that the false impression of needing to be invulnerable prevented open discussions.
Overall, he expresses significant regret about his departure from a club where he maintained a strong connection with the management.
Champions League Schedule This Week
Tuesday, Oct. 21 (All times Eastern)
12 p.m.: Champions League Matchday on Paramount+
12:45 p.m.: Barcelona vs. Olympiacos on Paramount+
12:45 p.m.: Kairat vs. Pafos on Paramount+
2:00 p.m.: UEFA Champions League Today pre-match on ;
2:45 p.m.: The Golazo Show
3 p.m.: Newcastle United vs. Benfica on Paramount+
3 p.m.: PSV vs. Napoli on Paramount+
3 p.m.: Bayer Leverkusen vs. Paris Saint-Germain on Paramount+
Conclusion
Schmeichel’s reflections on his choice to leave United serve as a cautionary tale regarding player management, mental health, and the ongoing pressures faced by footballers.
