Arsenal youngster Isaac Hayden has revealed he turned down a chance to join Manchester United in order to sign with Arsenal.
Hayden, is currently at Hull City on a season-long loan, told the Hull Daily Mail that it was a “no brainer” to spurn a move to the Red Devils once he’d heard of the Gunners’ interest.
“I was 14 when I joined Arsenal. I’d been at Southend before from the age of under-10s,” Hayden said.
“We played Arsenal in a friendly at under-13s and they said they’d take me.
“They were my team growing up because my idol was Patrick Vieira. I always watched his game and studied what he did.
“As soon as I got the nod, and the choice between Manchester United and Arsenal, it was an easy decision. I said ‘Drive me there now!’ as soon as I knew they were interested. It felt like a once in a lifetime opportunity.
“Man United were keen but when you’re 13 and living in London with your parents, it was a no brainer.”
Hayden made his senior debut in a Capital One Cup clash against London rivals West Ham United and was named as a substitute in Arsenal’s 1-0 win over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League last season.
However, the youngster suffered a season-ending ankle injury and is yet to make his Premier League debut with the club.
The 20-year-old has started life in the Championship strongly with Hull City, and a return to the Gunners first-team could be on the cards next season.
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