“It was the worst in my career”: Marouane Fellaini opens up on “nightmare” season under David Moyes

Former Manchester United midfielder Marouane Fellaini has described his debut season at Old Trafford under David Moyes as the worst of his career, but insists he has no ill will towards the current West Ham manager.

United paid £27.5 million on transfer deadline day in September 2013 to sign Fellaini from Everton.

He was Moyes’ biggest signing, but he underperformed at his new club. Fellaini made only 12 Premier League starts in 2013/14 as United finished seventh.

When the Red Devils signed Felliani from the Toffees, he was known for his goal-scoring ability. At 6ft 4in, the Belgian was well-known for the threat he provided to rival teams, particularly when attacking set pieces.

However, Fellaini did not score for United during his debut season with the club.

Moyes’ dismissal barely nine months into his term as manager offered the midfielder new hope. Things improved after Louis van Gaal took over.

Van Gaal and his replacement, Jose Mourinho, used Fellaini in a more forward role, where he excelled.

He scored seven goals in 31 appearances in the 2014/15 season as Van Gaal’s side won the FA Cup. Fellaini also played an important role under Mourinho as United won the EFL Cup and the Europa League.

Fellaini, who recently announced his retirement from football, met with club media and discussed his troubles under Moyes and how he turned things around.

“The first year at Manchester United was really difficult for me because, as you mentioned, I was the first signing following the [Sir Alex] Ferguson period, which was not easy. I’m honest, and I’ve always acknowledged that the first year was challenging for both me and the squad. We did something