The now 43-year-old Terry claimed that Manchester United tried hard to recruit him, underlining Ferguson’s eagerness to have him join the team. However, despite the effort from United, Terry felt a strong sense of belonging at Chelsea, the club he considered his ultimate choice.
He recalled how both Arsenal and Manchester United made efforts to sign him, but Chelsea offered him a feeling of home and belonging, where he made his debut in 1998 after joining the youth ranks three years prior. Terry mentioned how Sir Alex Ferguson made regular calls to him and his father, expressing his desire for Terry to join United.
Despite the overtures, Terry’s attachment to Chelsea prevailed, with the club feeling like home to him for the next 20 years. He reminisced about the long hours he spent training and traveling to Chelsea, expressing a deep sense of loyalty and belonging to the club.
Terry also fondly defended his former manager, Mourinho, and his record at both Chelsea and Manchester United. He upheld Mourinho’s achievements and his tough managerial style, expressing agreement with Mourinho’s direct approach in managing players and his willingness to hold them accountable for their performances.