During a post-match interview, Michael Owen, serving as a pundit, asked Steven Gerrard about his feelings returning to Anfield as an opposing manager. Owen admitted he “hated going back to play against Liverpool.” Gerrard, with a smile, replied, “If I’d have played for Man United, I’d have hated coming back as well.”

Michael Owen, once a celebrated figure at Liverpool, made a controversial move to their fierce rivals, Manchester United, in the summer of 2009, five years after leaving his boyhood club. The former Ballon d’Or recipient, now 44 and frequently seen as a pundit for outlets like TNT Sports and BBC’s Match of the Day, further strained his relationship with Liverpool supporters by securing his first and only Premier League title with the Red Devils in the 2010/11 season.

Reflecting on his title win under Sir Alex Ferguson, Owen remarked, “Yeah, well, as they say: if you can’t beat them, join them.”

In contrast, Steven Gerrard remains revered among Liverpool fans and is often regarded as one of the Premier League’s greatest British players. Demonstrating unwavering loyalty, the former midfielder stands as Liverpool’s third-highest appearance maker. His standout performances, notably during the memorable night in Istanbul, have solidified his legendary status at Anfield. Owen’s departure to Manchester United, however, has left his legacy among Liverpool supporters tarnished.

Gerrard’s Quip to Owen About Returning to Anfield

During Gerrard’s tenure as Aston Villa manager from November 2021 to October 2022, he faced Liverpool twice at Anfield, resulting in a 1-0 loss in December 2021 and a 2-1 defeat in May 2022. After the first match, Owen, serving as a pundit, inquired about Gerrard’s emotions upon returning to Anfield. Owen shared his own discomfort when playing against Liverpool, stating, “I must admit, I hated going back to play against them.”

With a sly smile, Gerrard, who shared the pitch with Owen 229 times for club and country, responded, “If I’d have played for Man United, I’d have hated coming back as well.” This remark elicited laughter from fellow pundits, including Robbie Fowler.

Owen’s journey saw him join Manchester United in July 2009 after stints with Real Madrid—a club he had long aspired to play for—and Newcastle United. Upon leaving Newcastle, reports indicated that, besides Manchester United, his options were limited to Hull City, Everton (another contentious choice), or retirement. It’s suggested that Owen’s decision to join Manchester United was driven by his desire to finally clinch a Premier League title, a feat he achieved in 2011.

Despite ranking seventh on Liverpool’s all-time scorers list at the time, with 158 goals in 297 appearances across all competitions, Owen’s move to Old Trafford left many Liverpool fans feeling betrayed.

In a recent interview, Owen expressed mixed emotions about returning to Anfield. While his heart “bursts with pride” approaching the stadium, he senses a lack of warmth from the supporters, leading to feelings of unease. He admitted, “I don’t feel as though I’m welcomed or loved and it bloody hurts, so I prefer to avoid it.”

Owen’s career began in 1997, quickly establishing himself as a prolific forward known for his speed and goal-scoring prowess. During his time with Liverpool, he secured honors such as the UEFA Cup, UEFA Super Cup, and the FA Cup. However, for many Liverpool supporters, his subsequent choices have overshadowed his on-field achievements.