The Scot believes that the Japan international felt surplus to requirements following former boss David Moyes’ decision to sign Juan Mata from Chelsea in January
Alex Ferguson has insisted that he was “happy” with Shinji Kagawa during their time together at Manchester United but nonetheless backed the attacking midfielder’s decision to return to Borussia Dortmund.
The Scot signed the Japan international from BVB in the summer of 2012 and, despite showing flashes of his ability during his first year at Old Trafford, Kagawa became a bit-part player last season under Ferguson’s successor, David Moyes, before deciding to re-join BVB in August.
Ferguson says that he never lost faith in Kagawa’s ability to cut it in the Premier League but believes that the writing was on the wall for the 25-year-old the moment United brought in Juan Mata from Chelsea in January.
“I was very happy with Shinji,” Ferguson told Bild. “He had settled in well when I was coach, and I had the impression he felt comfortable.
“But every coach has his own philosophy. When Moyes bought Juan Mata, Kagawa sensed he wasn’t first-choice anymore and somehow resigned a bit.
“So, I think BVB and Kagawa did the right thing. Shinji’s back where he feels best. And he has a coach in Jurgen Klopp who gives him the confidence he needs.”
Kagawa has looked at home at Signal Iduna Park in recent weeks, drawing high praise for his performance in the Champions League rout of Anderlecht last week.