I’m happy at Manchester United, insists Anderson after exit reports

Anderson insists he is happy at Manchester United and does not want to leave the club, despite him being quoted as saying he has sought an Old Trafford exit “many times”.

The Brazilian, who has not been a regular starter for Sir Alex Ferguson’s side this season despite returning to full fitness, was reported to have told Globo Esporte that he has tried to quit United in the past.

He said: “I have three more years of contract, I have tried to leave many times and never succeeded to do so.”

But the 24-year-old midfielder, whose current contract is set to expire in 2016, has now moved to clarify his comments, insisting he is happy at the Premier League leaders.

“It’s not true [about wanting to leave],” Anderson said. “Everyone knows I’m happy at the club. I’ve had a lot of injuries but I’ve never let the smile go from my face.”

He added: “The only places you could go to from here are Real Madrid and Barcelona. You can’t have another choice. The level at Manchester United is so big.”