I was 100 per cent joining Liverpool – but I ended up snubbing them and Arsenal

Former midfielder Gareth Barry revealed he believed he was certain to join Liverpool before ultimately choosing Manchester City over both the Reds and Arsenal in 2009. Speaking on the In The Mixer podcast, Barry recalled falling out with Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill after several bids from Liverpool were rejected. A year later, Barry snubbed interest from Liverpool and Arsene Wenger's Arsenal to complete a £12 million permanent transfer to Manchester City.

Barry denied accusations that his move to City was motivated purely by money, stating that Liverpool and Arsenal offered identical contract terms. He explained that City's ambition, regular playing time, and the appeal of being part of an emerging underdog project convinced him to join. Barry went on to win the FA Cup and Premier League title across four seasons with Manchester City before moving to Everton.