Wenger confirms blocking Manchester United move for Debuchy

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Wenger confirms blocking Manchester United move for Debuchy - The right-back had been over the moon after hearing of the Red Devils' interest, but his manager insists his decision not to strengthen a direct rival was correct

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger admitted on Friday that he prevented Manchester United from signing Mathieu Debuchy in the winter transfer window.

The full-back, eager to get some playing time under his belt ahead of host nation France's participation at Euro 2016, had previously stated that he was annoyed by the club's actions, though his boss insists it was an easy call to make.

“I hope that’s not surprising to you,” Wenger told a press conference. “You loan players to clubs who don’t have resources, not direct rivals.”

While Debuchy eventually secured a loan move to Bordeaux, January import Mohamed Elneny is now operating at full capacity and has impressed his new boss with his work ethic.

“Elneny has a good chance to play [against Hull] Wenger added. "He is ready and is fighting for a regular place.”