Over a managerial career spanning 26 years at Manchester United, Sir Alex Ferguson built some of the most formidable teams in football history. His success wasn’t just down to tactical brilliance but also an uncanny ability to spot talent and nurture it into greatness. Here, we look at 10 of his greatest signings, listed in chronological order.
Bringing together the best talents from the Eredivisie and Premier League, this combined XI is packed with creativity, precision, and a history of world-class performances. Let’s dive into the squad and explore what makes this team one of the most formidable you could imagine.
Arsenal entered Old Trafford on 24 October 2004 as football's untouchables, riding a 49-game unbeaten run in the Premier League that had earned them the legendary title of "The Invincibles." Their imperious form had seen them steamroll through the 2003/04 campaign without a single defeat, a feat unseen in English top-flight football since the late 19th century. But all good things must come to an end, and on a fiery afternoon in Manchester, Arsenal’s record-breaking streak came crashing down in controversial fashion.
When Manchester United faced Liverpool on October 1, 1995, the footballing world had its eyes on one man: Eric Cantona. The enigmatic Frenchman was making his long-awaited return from an eight-month suspension following his infamous "kung-fu kick" incident at Selhurst Park. As United hosted their fierce rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford, anticipation was electric. The match ended in a 2-2 draw, but the story was all about Cantona's comeback.
Some moments in football are destined to go down in history, and Wayne Rooney’s UEFA Champions League debut for Manchester United on 28 September 2004 was one such moment. At just 18 years old, Rooney delivered a performance that left fans in awe, announcing his arrival on the grandest European stage. Facing Turkish giants Fenerbahçe at Old Trafford, Rooney not only scored a hat-trick but also laid on an assist, leading United to a commanding 6–2 victory.