Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany has revealed his Mum blocked a move to Manchester United. City go to Old Trafford today for the derby.
Kompany was a 17-year-old learning his trade with Anderlecht when Sir Alex Ferguson came calling.
He recalled: "United asked about me, but I had other priorities at the time. I was studying for my A-levels and my mother made me finish my education before I could concentrate on football.
"But I've got to say that everything has played out perfectly for me in my career. It's a massive honour to be captain of this club and I can tell you that I feel really good. I have put my sweat and blood into Manchester City. I'm passionate about the club and I want success as much as the owners."