Manchester United legend Ji-sung Park thought it was part of a joke when his agent passed on United and Sir Alex Ferguson’s interest in his services.
The midfielder joined United in 2005 from PSV Eindhoven. He continued to enjoy great success in England, eventually becoming an icon and club legend.
Park is fondly remembered among the fan base for his high-intensity work-rate and contributions in United’s big games.
Speaking to NBC Sports about his move to Old Trafford, he said: “My agent told me Man United were interested in me but I thought it was a joke, why? So I just didn’t take it seriously.”
“My manager told me that Sir Alex Ferguson was waiting for your call!”
‘I said what? Why?’ and he said ‘he wants to talk to you and then I realized he was serious’.
The 41-year-old praised his former manager as a great man who made him feel valued and helped him to easily adapt to the culture of England.
Ferguson made it a point to sign the South Korean, who more than paid for the faith the legendary boss had shown him.
Park revealed that his best friend during his United days was Patrice Evra.
He admitted that their chalk and cheese personalities served to strengthen their bond, a friendship that still endures to this day.
Park described Evra as an outgoing and fun person, as opposed to his humble, quiet and more conservative personality.
“He came to South Korea sometimes and then we met in other places. We always joked on the phone, it’s really nice to have a best friend in a different culture.”
According to Park, Evra’s friendship was one of the best results of his United tenure.
