As he was preparing to leave Barcelona, Petit chose Chelsea over United in 2001.
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He recalled in his book, 'Franc-tireur (Maverick)', "I made a lifestyle choice to the detriment of the sporting choice.
"And on the rare occasions that I've made that choice, I've got it wrong. It was the same thing when I left Barcelona to go back to Chelsea.
"I gave priority to the social life in London when Ferguson expected me to sign for Manchester United. My wife didn't want to go to Manchester. I'm really annoyed at myself - I should have insisted upon my decision."
Chelsea host Manchester United in the Premier League tonight.