Anelka Reveals PSG Promised Liverpool Move Before Manager’s Last-Minute Change

Former international forward Nicolas Anelka expressed deep disappointment over the failure of his permanent transfer to Liverpool, a move he believed was assured before a sudden change of heart from then-manager Gerard Houllier. Anelka, who had a brief but impactful loan spell at Anfield, revealed that he was promised a permanent deal by Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) prior to Houllier’s decision to withdraw support for the transfer.

Background of the Transfer Saga

In December 2001, Anelka joined Liverpool on loan from PSG, where he scored five goals in 22 appearances. His performance led to expectations of a permanent move, which was discussed from the outset of his arrival. However, the situation took a turn when Liverpool opted to pursue El Hadji Diouf, who had recently impressed at the 2002 World Cup.

The decision to favor Diouf over Anelka has since been regarded as one of the most significant missteps in Liverpool’s transfer history. While Diouf struggled to find the net, Anelka thrived at Manchester City, scoring 45 goals over three seasons.

Anelka’s Regret

Reflecting on his time at Liverpool, Anelka described it as his “biggest regret,” stating that he felt an immediate connection with the club and its fans. He recalled that everything about Liverpool felt perfect, and he cherished the relationship he built with supporters. Anelka acknowledged that he was eager to sign a permanent contract from the very beginning of his loan.

He attributed the failure of the transfer to Houllier’s reluctance to meet his salary demands. Anelka stated, “It’s simple: it didn’t happen because Gerard Houllier wanted to pay a lower salary. I wanted to sign from the first minute.”

The Negotiation Breakdown

Anelka detailed the negotiation process, noting that discussions about a permanent deal were ongoing as the season progressed. He mentioned that PSG shareholder Alain Cayzac had informed him that Houllier had indicated Liverpool would sign him. However, as the season drew to a close, Anelka found himself without updates from either PSG or Liverpool regarding his contract.

He learned through the media that Liverpool was pursuing another player, which confirmed his fears that the club would not finalize his signing. Anelka also addressed rumors that his representatives had attempted to engineer a return to Arsenal, questioning the validity of such claims.

Phil Thompson’s Role

Phil Thompson, who served as interim manager during Anelka’s proposed move while Houllier was recovering from a heart operation, suggested that the club’s decision was influenced by the alleged attempts of Anelka’s representatives to facilitate a return to Arsenal. Anelka refuted this narrative, emphasizing that if he had intended to return to Arsenal, he would have signed with them once Liverpool announced they would not proceed with his transfer.

He expressed admiration for Thompson, stating that he preferred his straightforward approach over Houllier’s management style. Anelka believed that had Thompson been the permanent manager, he would have signed with Liverpool and remained for many years.

Anelka’s Career Post-Liverpool

Following his time at Liverpool, Anelka went on to have a successful career, playing for clubs such as Chelsea, Bolton, and West Brom in England, as well as Fenerbahce and Juventus abroad. His tenure at Chelsea was particularly fruitful, where he won the Premier League, two FA Cups, and reached the Champions League final in 2008.

Anelka’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictability of football transfers and the impact of managerial decisions on player careers. His experience at Liverpool remains a significant chapter in his professional journey.

For further details, visit the original reporting source: Mirror.

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Published on 2026-07-30 08:45:00 • By the Editorial Desk