David Moyes said Real Sociedad were the “only side that tugged at my heartstrings” after revealing he had turned down offers from a number of Premier League clubs before agreeing to take over the Primera Division strugglers.

Moyes was confirmed as Sociedad’s new manager on Monday night, seven months after he was sacked as Manchester United boss.

Speaking at his official presentation in San Sebastian yesterday, Moyes admitted he had chances to return to management in England but said Sociedad were the only one that really captured his imagination.

He said: “Never had any doubt (about joining Sociedad). I’d had several offers to manage back in the Premier League, I’ve spoken to several clubs in different countries but the only place that has really tugged at the heartstrings and made me think this is the right club has been Sociedad.”

The Scot, who has signed a one-and-a-half-year deal with the Spanish outfit, left United just 10 months into a six-year contract after being named as the successor to Sir Alex Ferguson in the summer of 2013.

Despite that chastening experience, Moyes says he is now ready to return to management and looking forward to the challenge of leading Sociedad away from the Primera Liga relegation zone.

Moyes said: “I feel at this stage it’s the right time. I’m well rested and I’ve got to say I’m raring to go.

“I’m really looking forward to the challenge, big challenge but one which I’m confident. The confidence the chairman has given me has been great and I’m looking forward to showing him what I can do.”