Tevez Claims Broken Promise by Ferguson Fueled Man City Move

Carlos Tevez has asserted that a broken promise from former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was the primary reason behind his infamous transfer to rivals Manchester City in 2009. Tevez, who was on loan at United, made the switch to City and went on to win a third Premier League title, famously holding a banner that read 'RIP Fergie' during the 2012 celebrations.

Appearing on the 'Rio Ferdinand Presents' YouTube channel, Tevez explained that prior to his loan spell, he was informed that his contract would be made permanent after one year if he performed well. "Fergie told me, 'Carlos, now I'm going to pay out your contract and you're going to stay in Manchester'," Tevez recounted. "He said, ‘I’m going to pay for Berbatov but you, don't worry, I'm going to buy you and we'll do your contract.'"

However, United reportedly declined to pay the fee to secure Tevez permanently, leading to him staying for another year before his departure. "For me, the people understand," Tevez said of the United fans' divided opinion on his transfer. "They don’t understand about Fergie speaking to me, or behind the scenes. What happened between Fergie and me, I think people don't understand that."

Tevez felt that Ferguson did not uphold his word and instead began sidelining him. "He started leaving me on the bench. In my head, he started pushing me aside so he could bring down what I was worth. And that's what hurt me the most," he stated.

Ferdinand expressed sympathy, suggesting Tevez's exit was a significant blow to United, who have not won a Premier League title since 2013. Despite the contentious departure, Tevez indicated he still holds some affection for Manchester United.

"For me it was hard Rio. It was hard because I felt like I'd given my heart to United. And I didn't feel the same," Tevez said. "The other team, City, for me, was like a revenge. I didn't get back what I gave."