Jonny Evans, defender for Manchester United, has expressed that he likely would have considered retiring from football had he not signed a contract extension with the club.
On July 12, Manchester United announced Evans had agreed to a new one-year contract, returning to his original professional club in 2023 after his contract with Leicester came to an end.
The 36-year-old stated he had no doubt that he would ultimately sign the new contract.
After spending eight years commuting to the Midlands from his home in the north-west to play for West Brom and later Leicester, Evans was not keen on relocating to another club.
“The fine details took a bit longer than anticipated, but I was certain I wasn’t going anywhere else,” he shared. “It was either stay here or likely retire.
“I was pleased that another season opened up and the club wanted me to remain. I enjoyed my time last season and wish to carry that on.”
Although he joined as a backup, Evans made 30 appearances last season due to various injuries affecting Erik ten Hag’s squad.
Additionally, he secured another FA Cup winner’s medal after substituting in for Lisandro Martinez for the last 17 minutes of the triumph over Manchester City at Wembley in May.
Evans recognizes he will likely find himself in a similar situation again this season, especially with injuries to striker Rasmus Hojlund and 18-year-old defensive recruit Leny Yoro during the recent 2-1 pre-season loss to Arsenal in Los Angeles, which doesn’t bode well for the upcoming Premier League campaign starting on August 16.
“Injuries are something you definitely want to avoid, particularly in pre-season. That is crucial,” stated Evans.
“Muscle injuries are troubling, and Rasmus mentioned it might be his hamstring. I’m unsure about Leny yet. Hopefully, it’s not too serious.”
Evans played in the second half against Arsenal, and with Lisandro Martinez still on holiday after winning the Copa America with Argentina and Victor Lindelof sidelined due to a minor issue, the experienced Northern Ireland international is expected to play a significant role in the upcoming match against La Liga’s Real Betis in San Diego on Wednesday.
Having dealt with injuries himself, Evans is optimistic that his body can endure the demands of another lengthy domestic season.
“I feel fit and sharp this pre-season,” he remarked. “I don’t feel as if I have declined much and actually feel like I’ve returned with renewed energy.
“I just want to ensure I maintain my fitness. Last year, I ended up playing 30 matches, allowing me to keep my fitness levels up quite easily.
“But I know that if I’m not on the pitch for a while, I must stay fit because when I’m called upon, I need to be ready.”
