James Garner says he made the right call by leaving Manchester United for Everton, with the midfielder admitting he did not want his career to stall at Old Trafford.
The 24-year-old spent nine years in United’s academy after joining in 2009 and made his first-team breakthrough. Loan spells at Watford and Nottingham Forest followed, giving Garner senior football before he left Manchester United permanently for Everton in 2022 in a £15 million deal.
His decision has worked out well. Garner’s form at Everton has earned him a return to the England squad, having last been called up on his international debut in March.
Looking back at his move, Garner believes playing regularly mattered more than waiting for an opportunity at United.
“I think it was the perfect thing for me to do,” Garner said as quoted by The Standard.
Garner had already moved away from home during his loan spells and was comfortable with making another change.
“For me, it was just about playing games and Everton was the perfect choice at that point,” he said. “I didn’t just want to fizzle into the background and just sit on the bench and stuff like that, so I wanted to go into a team where I felt like I had a chance to fight for my position.”
James Garner has no regrets over Man Utd exit
Asked whether he regretted leaving United, Garner was equally clear.
“No, not really. I am a big believer that everything happens for a reason,” he said.
He also pointed to United’s midfield recruitment after his exit as another reason why staying may not have worked out.
“When I left they signed three or four midfielders, world-class ones,” Garner said. “Had I stayed, I wouldn’t have been where I am today, so I am more than happy that I left.”
