Veron pulls out of MLS move

LA PLATA, Argentina (Ticker) - Juan Sebastian Veron has performed a U-turn on a reported deal to join DC United, opting instead to remain in Argentina.

The Estudiantes midfielder had looked set to head north to Major League Soccer, but seemingly had a change of heart after speaking with his team-mates.

“I’m staying because of the fans and my team-mates. The truth is that I couldn’t say goodbye,” said the 32-year-old, who had spells with Parma, Lazio, Manchester United, Chelsea and Inter Milan in Europe.

“My team-mates’ request for me to stay was very important. And I couldn’t ignore the fans’ affection. It is impossible not to be touched when you are an Estudiantes fan,” Veron added on Ole.com.

The veteran, who collected a Serie A title with Lazio, admitted he had been very tempted by the offer to join MLS.

“It was a lot of money; maybe I would advise a kid to go,” he said. “But in a situation like mine it is better to live for the things that give you happiness.”

Key among Veron’s reasons to stay was Estudiantes’ qualification for the Copa Libertadores.

“My teammates told me: ‘We fought for a year to play in the Copa Libertadores and we have to stay together’,” he said.