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Ferguson: Mata arrival signalled end for Kagawa

Shinji Kagawa has endured a mixed return to Borussia Dortmund since his summer move from Manchester United © Getty Images

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David Moyes' signing of Juan Mata ended Shinji Kagawa's chances to succeed at Manchester United, according to Sir Alex Ferguson.

Kagawa returned to Borussia Dortmund during the final days of the summer transfer period following a largely unsuccessful two-year spell at Manchester United.

Dortmund splashed out some £6.3 million on the midfielder, only half the price United paid for him in 2012.

While Kagawa's first few weeks after his return to Dortmund have been far from successful for the club, the Japan international hinted at his potential in his first match against Freiburg and during last week's 3-0 Champions League win at Anderlecht.

As the man who brought him to Old Trafford, Ferguson believes that Kagawa will rediscover his form and become a key player at Dortmund again.

"I believe that [Dortmund] and Kagawa did everything right. Shinji is back in surroundings in which he feels like a fish in water," Ferguson told German tabloid Bild. "And in [Jurgen] Klopp he has a coach, who can provide him with the necessary confidence."

Kagawa made an encouraging start at United in his first year, despite a lengthy injury lay-off, scoring six goals in 20 Premier League appearances.

However, he struggled to make an impact under the tutelage of Moyes last season and failed to find the back of the net in 18 games - 14 of them as a starter.

"I was very satisfied with Shinji. He settled well, and I had the feeling that he felt comfortable," Ferguson said.

"Every manager has his own philosophy. When Moyes signed the Spanish superstar [Juan] Mata [during the 2013-2014 winter transfer period], Kagawa felt that he no longer is the first choice, and gave up a hope a bit."

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