"It was the sporting project I wanted" – La Liga star opens up on why he rejected Barcelona and Manchester United

RCD Espanyol defender Omar El Hilali has opened up on why he decided to reject Barcelona and Manchester United in the past, revealing he was impressed with his club's project.

El Hilali, 21, has cemented himself as a regular starter for Espanyol since the start of last term. He helped his current team seal a promotion to the La Liga last season, providing four assists in 41 games across competitions in the process.

The Morocco U23 international, who joined the Parakeets' academy in 2016, has started all 17 of his La Liga appearances so far this season. He has turned a lot of heads with his versatility and talent, operating mainly as a right full-back.

During a recent chat with Spanish newspaper AS, El Hilali asserted that he had the chance to join Barcelona's La Masia before joining their local rivals' youth setup. He remarked (h/t Barca Universal):

"I had the opportunity to choose between Barcelona and Espanyol, and I chose Espanyol because I felt that it had to be that way, and my family also thought it was the best thing for me. It was the sporting project I wanted. And I think I made the right choice, because now I am living a dream."

Hilali, whose current Espanyol deal will run out in June 2027, continued:

"[Manchester United] wanted me, just as Barcelona tried to sign me again, but I was very clear that I wanted to stay at Espanyol. Sometimes money can make you doubt, but that was not the case for me, because I knew what I wanted. I preferred to follow my heart, I felt that I had to stay here."

So far, El Hilali has made 68 matches in all competitions for Espanyol.

Manchester United eyeing Barcelona defender

According to Spanish news outlet Fichajes.net, Manchester United are interested in snapping up Barcelona ace Inigo Martinez. They are keen to sign the centre-back on a free transfer as the star is in the final year of his current deal.

Martinez, 33, has emerged as a vital starter for the Blaugrana under Hansi Flick due to injuries to Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen. He has produced two goals and as many assists in 24 games across competitions this season.

Should Martinez seal a permanent transfer to Manchester United next year, he could prove to be a shrewd signing for them. The former Real Sociedad and Athletic Club star would provide experience and leadership to the Red Devils' squad.