Michael Owen’s decision to join Manchester United left an indelible mark on his footballing legacy, sparking controversy and emotional turmoil whenever he returned to Liverpool, the club where his career began.
Owen joined Liverpool’s academy at 12 and quickly became one of the Premier League’s brightest stars, showcasing blistering pace and clinical finishing.
Between 1996 and 2004, he netted 158 goals in 297 appearances, securing a treble in 2001 and becoming the youngest English player to win the Ballon d’Or. However, as Liverpool struggled to keep pace with rivals, Owen departed for Real Madrid in 2004.
After a brief spell in Spain, Owen’s potential return to Liverpool was blocked, leading him to Newcastle United before a surprise move to Manchester United in 2009. His time at Old Trafford yielded a Premier League title and a League Cup win, but his decision to join Liverpool’s fiercest rivals created a tense atmosphere whenever he visited Anfield.
In an interview, Owen described the emotional strain: “I hated going back as a player. It felt like punching my brother. Being booed made me feel sick, and my parents were devastated.” Despite the backlash, Owen cherishes his achievements at Manchester United, including scoring a derby winner and netting in the League Cup final.
Reflecting on his career, Owen admits mixed feelings. “I’d love to have the legacy of Jamie Carragher or Steven Gerrard,” he said, adding that Liverpool’s 2005 Champions League triumph left him bittersweet: “I wanted my mates to win but thought, ‘That could have been me.’”
Since retiring in 2013, Owen has transitioned into punditry, providing insights for TNT Sports and Premier League Productions. While his career decisions may have divided fans, his talent and contributions to English football remain undeniable.