Paul Eymard rejects Manchester United to sign Saint-Étienne deal

Paul Eymard turned down approaches from Manchester United and Inter Milan before signing his first professional contract with AS Saint-Étienne, describing the decision as part of a “calculated choice” in his development.

The 18-year-old midfielder has emerged as one of the brightest prospects in Ligue 2 this season, prompting interest from several European clubs. However, rather than move abroad, he committed his immediate future to the club that nurtured him.

According to But! Football Club, both Manchester United and Inter Milan submitted proposals in an attempt to sign the France youth international. Instead, Eymard signed professional terms with Saint-Étienne in January.

The teenager has made seven senior appearances this season, scoring twice and adding one assist in 390 minutes of action. He also featured regularly for France Under-17 between 2024 and 2025.

Despite the attention, Eymard insists patience guided his decision.

“I tell myself that I still have a long way to go and that I have many hurdles to overcome,” he said.

“Just because people are starting to talk about me a lot, because big clubs are showing interest, doesn’t mean I’m going to succeed.”

Eymard explained that remaining at Saint-Étienne offers continuity, daily exposure to senior professionals and a supportive environment.

“I decided to sign my first professional contract with ASSE because it’s the club that trained me, so it’s a natural step in my development,” he added.

“It’s too early to talk about the big European clubs. I mustn’t rush things.”

Having followed the trajectory of several French prospects in recent seasons, early moves to elite clubs can accelerate exposure but also increase pressure. For Eymard, securing consistent minutes at professional level appears the priority over prestige.

However, it remains too early to determine whether rejecting Manchester United and Inter Milan will prove decisive long term. Continued progress in Ligue 2 and potential promotion battles could reshape the landscape quickly.

Eymard’s immediate focus will be cementing a regular role in Saint-Étienne’s senior side. Sustained performances could reignite interest from major European clubs in future windows.

For Manchester United and Inter, monitoring is likely to continue. If the midfielder develops consistently, renewed approaches cannot be ruled out.

Will Eymard’s measured decision strengthen his long-term prospects, or will Europe’s giants return sooner than expected?