Michael Owen on his career at Manchester United: 'I felt half-ashamed'.

Michael Owen on the undeserved recognition of his skills

According to The Sun: Michael Owen shared that he feels 'hurt' that people do not remember how he was in his youth, admitting that he felt 'ashamed' to play for Manchester United.

Owen started his career at Liverpool at the age of 12, setting numerous records, including becoming the youngest recipient of the Golden Boot in the Premier League in the 1997/98 season, scoring 18 goals at the age of 18.

Getty

He remained the youngest player to score 100 goals in the Premier League, achieving this at 23. He also became the second youngest recipient of the Ballon d'Or in 2001 at 22, becoming only the fourth Englishman to receive this award.

Despite winning a second consecutive Golden Boot, an injury in the 1998/99 season led to a decline in his career. However, he continued to play for Real Madrid, Manchester United, Newcastle, and Stoke, before retiring in 2013 at the age of 33.

Owen, who scored 40 goals for the England national team in 89 matches, said:

'People remember me only for my later years, when I started to decline.'

He noted that the 'agony' is that few understand how he was in his younger years.

'It hurts because at 18 I was unique. Other players had no chance of comparing with me.'

Getty

Owen emphasized that his career was divided into two phases: 'Liverpool and Madrid. After that, I was no longer the same.'

'I loved playing for United, but I was ashamed.'

Thus, he explained that he ended his career not due to his physical condition but because he could no longer bear the status of a 'Premier League winner.'

Owen also understood what Trent Alexander-Arnold is going through, who faced criticism after his move from Liverpool to Real.

'I don't like this criticism. Fans can't understand that this is our career.'

Getty Getty In the history of football, Michael Owen occupies a special place. His achievements at a young age and successes at Liverpool left a bright mark in the memories of fans. He, in particular, became a symbol for young players who dream of a career in professional sports. Despite critical moments in his career, his experience and wisdom can serve to make important decisions, especially for young talents facing similar hatred from fans.