Sir Alex: Mata Move Cost Kagawa

Sir Alex Ferguson believes Manchester United’s decision to sign Juan Mata ended any hope Shinji Kagawa had of succeeding at the club.

Ferguson brought the Japanese star to Old Trafford in his final season and despite initial struggles, the midfielder was starting to adjust to Premier League football.

"I was very satisfied with Shinji. He settled in well and felt comfortable with us,” Ferguson told Bild.

After former manager David Moyes’ decision to snap up Mata for £37.1 million from rivals Chelsea in January, Kagawa had no option but to move on and return to Borussia Dortmund this summer.

"Every manager has his own philosophy. Moyes’ first choice was Mata and Shinji felt he couldn’t contribute anymore,” added Ferguson.

“But I believe that he and Dortmund made the right decision. He is now back in familiar surroundings and (Dortmund manager) Jurgen Klopp can provide that extra boost of confidence in him.”