Pavel Nedved has revealed the one big regret of his career is never having the opportunity to play for Manchester United.
The former Czech Republic star was one of the finest midfielders of his generation and enjoyed a trophy-laden career with Sparta Prague, Lazio and Juventus.
He was named European Footballer of the Year in 2003 ahead of Thierry Henry and Paolo Maldini after helping Juventus win Serie A.
Despite his success, Nedved admits he is a touch envious of Czech team-mate Karel Poborsky, who played under Sir Alex Ferguson at United from 1996-98.
“A regret?” Nedved told Czech newspaper Idnes. “That I never played for Manchester United. I’d have liked that. The transfer was never on the table though, there was only Chelsea [interested in me].
“I liked the generation of Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs, whom I admired. I was a little bit jealous of Karel Poborsky, who played in Manchester and experienced great matches. I know he still feels that love.”
During his career, Nedved played alongside some of the biggest names in world football, including Alessandro Nesta, Gianluigi Buffon, Lilian Thuram, Fabio Cannavaro and Alessandro Del Piero.
But he rates Manchester United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic above them all, as the most talented player he ever played alongside.
“In terms of team-mates, I’ve had a lot and I don’t want to offend anyone,” he stated. “If I had to pick one [as the best] though, I’d say Zlatan Ibrahimovic. He’s a striker who can cut through defences. He has scary power and height, as well as excellent technique.
“That said, when he came to Juventus, he couldn’t finish. What you see today is mainly down to the fact Fabio Capello took him for a half-an-hour of shooting practice after every training session.”
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