Few players have learnt that the grass isn't always greener in a more brutal fashion than former Manchester United academy starlet Martin Svidersky.
The 20-year-old midfielder was tipped for big things at Old Trafford and despite much of his time being littered with injury, United were surprisingly still more than willing to offer him a new contract last summer. It served as quite a shock when Svidersky then proceeded to turn down the chance to work under new boss Erik ten Hag.
Instead, he made the eyebrow-raising decision to join LaLiga outfit Almeria. We are now approaching the final furlong of the Spanish season with more than half of the campaign complete and yet the young Slovakian is yet to actually play a single minute for the first team since the switch.
In fact, the talented midfielder's most notable contribution since penning the five-year deal with Almeria in July of last year has been getting sent off on his debut for the club's reserve side.
That dismissal came during a 3–0 home win over El Palo FC in mid-December, meaning it took Svidersky more than four months just to get an outing for the reserve side.
Given how remarkably poorly the move has gone, many would assume he harbours some regret or frustration. However, it is important to note that Svidersky was offered fresh terms by the Red Devils but turned them down.
HAVE YOUR SAY! Did Svidersky make the wrong decision in leaving Man Utd? Comment below
In actual fact, there is clearly no ill feeling from the player towards his former side if his comments after his exit are anything to go by.
"I experienced a lot of nice moments in Manchester, but also difficult moments. They definitely strengthened me and taught me a lot. I tried to use every second," Svidersky told Flashscore.
"I think I made the most of my time. It's true that I didn't manage to fulfil the dream I came for was very close but I chose a different path.
"I prioritised personal development over 'fame'. I met great people who I have stayed in touch with.
"Thank you also for my second parents from Manchester who have already come to visit me in Spain."
This demise marks a steep decline for a player who was crowned United's scholar of the year after his first season at the club and was the subject of intense interest from both Chelsea and Liverpool before his move to Old Trafford.
