The former Red Devils captain reflects on his 2020 move to Inter Milan and why he felt forced to leave Old Trafford despite a new contract offer.
From Winger to Captain: The Ashley Young Legacy
Ashley Young remains a significant figure in Manchester United’s recent history. Arriving from Aston Villa in 2011 as a dynamic winger, he eventually evolved into a dependable full-back and was a vital member of the 2013 Premier League winning squad the club’s last top-flight title.
With over 260 appearances and trophies including the FA Cup and Europa League, Young’s influence led Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to name him club captain in 2019. However, just months later, he stunned fans by swapping Manchester for Milan.
The Turning Point: Why Young Chose Inter over United
Despite Manchester United offering him a contract extension to stay at Old Trafford, Young felt the club’s direction and their treatment of senior players left him with no choice but to depart.
“I don’t regret it at all,” Young insisted when reflecting on his move to Inter Milan. “The way the club acted told me all I need to know. I wanted to be part of something where I was truly valued for my experience on the pitch.”
The decision was vindicated almost immediately. Under Antonio Conte, Young became a key component of the Inter side that broke Juventus’ dominance to claim the Serie A Scudetto in 2021.
A Leader’s Instinct: Giving up the Armband
Giving up the captaincy of Manchester United is a move few players would make, but Young’s desire for a new challenge in Italy outweighed the prestige of the armband. His departure marked the end of an era, as one of the last “Ferguson-era” players left the dressing room.
As United continues its rebuilding process under Michael Carrick in 2026, Young’s comments serve as a reminder of the cultural shifts the club has faced over the last decade regarding player loyalty and executive decision-making.
Siara Costa is a football editor and writer covering both European men’s and women’s football, with a focus on league competitions, match coverage, and in-depth storytelling.
