- Manchester United boast some top talent post-Sir Alex Ferguson
- The club have broken their transfer record since his retirement
- Only one current player makes the list
Manchester United have always had a reputation for having talent. Though known for their homegrown players, the side under Sir Alex Ferguson made signings that brought flair to the game.
Every manager’s biggest challenge is finding potential. After Ferguson’s departure, the team continued to rely on his signings, such as David De Gea and Wayne Rooney. However, time brings change, and new managers brought in players who suited their game plans. While not many could display their best, the resilient ones made their mark.
For the past 13 years, only a few have made an impact. From homegrown to transfers, the list has it all.
5. Ander Herrera- 2014
Ander Herrera joined Manchester United for £28.85 million from Athletic Bilbao in 2014. The Spanish midfielder quickly became known for tough tackling and technical playmaking abilities. His ability to open up defences and provide through balls was a signature element.
The midfielder was Louis van Gaal’s first acquisition. While scoring goals was not his strongest suit, he found the net 20 times during his tenure.
However, his performance was key in 2016 and 2017, when United won the FA Cup, EFL Cup and Europa League. His personal laurels include a 2017 Player of the Year. The six-year stay and 189 appearances for the Red Devils were important for the side.
4. Juan Mata- 2014
Another Spaniard in the list is Juan Mata. Despite winning two Player of the Year awards at Chelsea, he could not turn down a Man Utd offer. David Moyes brought this influential player to Old Trafford for £37.1 million.
Mata’s midfield magic and playmaking skills helped distribute the ball. Besides, he could operate in tight spaces. Often called the “big game” player, as he provided clutch moments on the biggest stage.
An Anfield brace in 2015, with a stunning scissor-kick volley, provided United with a 2-1 victory. The midfielder scored 52 goals and provided 54 assists in 278 appearances. He secured four trophies: the FA Cup, the Europa League, the League Cup, and the Community Shield.
3. Zlatan Ibrahimovic – 2016
A transfer tale of its kind. Before the club announced the signing, Zlatan Ibrahimovic did the honours. The most unexpected deals that surprised everyone. The free agent was 34 at that time and picked the Premier League as his next conquest.
After being granted the no.9, Zlatan took full responsibility as an experienced centre-forward. However, it was his reunion with Jose Mourinho, whom he had played under at Inter Milan.
In his first season, the majestic striker scored 28 goals. The Swede scored on his debut in the Community Shield, a 2-1 win over Leicester City. His reputation as a clutch player was cemented again at Wembley, when he scored a brace in the 3-2 Carabao Cup victory against Southampton.
2. Marcus Rashford- 2015
Academy graduates and Manchester United are a match made in heaven. One such combo is Marcus Rashford, whose debut sent Old Trafford into a joyous outburst. The promotion to the senior team, initiated by Louis van Gaal, turned out to be a game-changer for the club.
A debut brace in the UEFA Europa League, in a 5–1 against FC Midtjylland, was just the start. Next up, in his first Premier League appearance, he followed with another double and an assist in the 3-2 victory against Arsenal at Old Trafford.
Later, he would go on to score 138 goals in 426 appearances. The Englishman won Player of the Year following a stellar 2022/23 season, when he scored 30 goals.
1. Bruno Fernandes- 2020
Fernandes is the only current player in the list. Since joining the club in 2020, he has climbed up the ladder to become an important player. He has won four Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year awards.
The Portuguese moved to England from Sporting Lisbon for £67.7 million, including add-ons. The club still reaps the benefits of the signing made by former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Fernandes is only the fourth overseas player to score 100 times for United. Under his influence, the side has won the FA Cup and the Carabao Cup. Recently, he broke David Beckham’s record for assists in a single season. While his career is still very much active, the midfielder could add more achievements to his name.
