Everton midfielder James Garner has expressed no regrets about his decision to leave Manchester United. The former United youth player departed in the summer of 2022, seeking regular first-team action.
Since his move, Garner has firmly established himself in the Everton squad, and a strong start to the current season under David Moyes has earned him an England call-up for the upcoming Nations League matches.
Ahead of the clash with Spain, the 25-year-old discussed his decision to leave his boyhood club.
Garner stated:
I think it was the perfect decision for me. I've never been afraid to put myself in a less comfortable situation. I had gone out on loan three times – first to Watford, and then twice to Nottingham Forest.
So, the move or the change of scenery didn't trouble me at all. The main thing for me was playing, and Everton was the ideal choice at that moment.
The midfielder emphasised that he did not want to remain at Manchester United without regular playing time:
I didn't want to just fade into the background and sit on the bench. I wanted to move to a team where I could fight for my place. That's what I've been doing for the last three or four years.
When directly asked if he regrets leaving Old Trafford, Garner was resolute:
The player added:
No, not at all. I firmly believe that everything happens for a reason. After I left, they signed three or four world-class midfielders.
If I had stayed, I wouldn't be where I am today. So I’m more than happy with my decision to leave.
