Blanc admits self-doubts

The former French captain was heavily criticised following his arrival at Old Trafford as he struggled to adjust to the pace of The Premiership.

The 36-year-old defender, who recently re-stated his wish to retire at the end of the season, says the experience was a good one for the team in hindsight and feels the recovery showed the team's character.

Speaking to France Football, Blanc said: "When you arrived in a team that used to win everything and in two months they almost don't win anymore matches, who ever you are, you ask you some questions.

"Ultimately, it was a good experience. Manchester [United] realised that if the players do not play not at 100%, they could trip up at any time.

"Manchester or not Manchester, it is the same for any team.

"There were little doubts about the tactics as well. The idea was to reinforce the midfield to have only one forward.

"It was not a bad idea, but the changes involved were not very well assimilated. So there was a loss of trust.

"In some other clubs I used to know, there would have been revolution. But here, no one panicked."

Blanc went on to say that the opportunity to play in the Champions League - which amazingly he had not done before in his illustrious career - was the motivating reason behind him moving to Old Trafford and feels The Red Devils can win the trophy.

"The participation of Manchester United to the Champions League represented a major element of my arrival in England.

"I think we have the same potential, as some other teams, to reach the final and win.

"When I am thinking about Champions League, the first word that comes to my mind is exhausting.

"It is a true obstacle course. Personally, I prefer the Cup system with first and return leg, and direct elimination. But I must admit for the clubs, the actual system has more advantages."

"But what offends me the most is the fact that a team that finishes third in the national championship can become European Champion. In a way it shocks me."

Blanc also claimed his long time French team-mate Fabien Barthez is now back to his best after some poor form earlier in the season

"He is now very well. Don't worry about him, he didn't lose his qualities.

"Especially his ability to concentrate for the big games. He will be present for World Cup. Some days ago, I told him: 'Finally, you were lucky. You made all your blunders in a row, now you can be quiet for the rest of your career.'"

Blanc ended the interview by saying that he is undecided what to do at the end of his career, and though he wants to stay in the game, being a coach does not appeal to him.

"At 36-years-old, I took my decision to stop at the end of this season.

"I will follow that path unless I have a fabulous opportunity.

"But I think this time it is really the end. But you know, the celebrations, the ceremonies, it is really not for me. I will go back to my Montpellier area.

"When I was young, I left that region and I've enjoyed a long and beautiful trip, but today I am ready to go back.

"I am certain I won't sit in a chair and smoke a cigar all through the day.

"I must be realistic. I have been in football for more than 20 years, I can't do anything else.

"Coach is a trail, but not the only one. It is not the one that really excites me."