The negative energy at Man United drove me out - joining Aston Villa was common sense

Cleverley recalled his 2014 loan move to Villa as an escape from the negativity engulfing Manchester United under Van Gaal, describing it as "common sense" for his career.

Tom Cleverley reflected on his decision to leave Manchester United on loan to Aston Villa in 2014, citing the pervasive negativity surrounding the club at the time. The former midfielder, who had progressed through United's academy from age 12, spent 79 appearances for the Reds but found himself caught in a difficult atmosphere during a troubled spell at Old Trafford.

Speaking 12 years after his deadline-day switch to Villa, Cleverley explained that escaping the negativity was essential for his development. "If all the players last season said they were high in confidence, they would be lying," he said. "It wasn't just me. It was the rest of the squad and that rubs on to players and the fans, too." He praised manager Louis van Gaal for being "always straight" with him, and made clear he believed his United days were finished, with his contract expiring at the end of 2014/15.

Cleverley's loan at Villa proved productive, featuring 37 times and scoring three goals before earning a permanent move to Everton. He has since moved into management, most recently taking the head coach position at Plymouth Argyle.