5 longest-serving captains in Manchester United history

Manchester United boast more trophies than any other club in English football. Being one of the top sides, they have reached the pinnacle of football numerous times in their illustrious history. The Red Devils have been crowned league champions 20 times while winning the Community Shield 21 times.

Manchester United have also been dominant in Europe, winning the European Cup thrice in their history. The famous continental treble in 1999 under the tutelage of Sir Alex Ferguson cemented their legacy as one of football's greatest ever clubs.

Manchester United have won the Premier League 13 times in the Premier League era. However, they have endured tough times following the departure of Sir Alex.

Be it their time of dominance or struggle, they have had the pleasure of witnessing numerous legendary captains lead their side in their rich history.

On that note, let's take a look at

5 longest-serving captains in Manchester United's history

Honorable mention: Sir Bobby Charlton (1968 - 1973). He was one of the survivors of Manchester United's tragic Munich air disaster. He remains one of the top goalscorers for the club with 249 goals.

In addition to being a sensational attacker, he helped Manchester United win numerous trophies. This includes three English championships and a European Cup.

#5 Gary Neville (2005-2010)

Manchester United v Liverpool - Premier League

Gary Neville was the successor to Roy Keane as captain in 2005. He led Manchester United to two Premier League titles and one Champions League, among other notable tenures. The Englishman's six-season tenure saw the Red Devils enjoy a purple patch with Sir Alex Ferguson still at the helm.

Gary Neville was one of the players who rose from United's famed 'Class of 92' batch and stayed at the club throughout his career. He was the undisputed choice at right-back over the years. He also holds fifth spot in the list of all-time appearances for Manchester United (602).

As captain, Neville always led by example and never let the club feel Roy Keane's absence on the pitch.

#4 Martin Buchan (1975-1982)

Martin Buchan of Manchester United and Kevin Keegan of Liverpool

Martin Buchan was the captain for Manchester United during their worst era. The Red Devils were relegated to the second tier of English football in 1974 when Buchan took charge amidst the chaos and turmoil.

Buchan led United back into the English top flight the following year. He then led the club to victory in the FA Cup final against bitter rivals Liverpool. The Scottish legend is known more for being the supreme leader during United's toughest period than winning a plethora of trophies.

Buchan featured over 450 times for Manchester United and was a reputed centre-back during his tenure at the club. He was renowned for his tactical awareness, intelligence and leadership skills on the pitch.

#3 Johnny Carey (1945-1953)

Johnny Carey, legendary Irish captain of Manchester United, led the club to immense success in the 1950s. Source: Everton FC

Johnny Carey was the first Irish player to win a major trophy for Manchester United. He was pivotal to the club's success until 1950s. Carey was chosen as club captain by Sir Matt Busby. He led the Red Devils to the FA Cup title and First division title following World War 2.

Carey was a versatile footballer, featuring in numerous positions at Manchester United during his tenure. The Irishman made over 300 appearances for the Premier League giants, racking up 47 goals for the club. Carey was also elected FWA Footballer of the year in 1949 due to his exploits.

Carey led United to runners-up finishes numerous times before eventually winning the title in 1952. Under his leadership, United won the FA Cup in 1948 and the FA Charity Shield in 1952.

#2 Roy Keane (1997-2005)

Roy Keane remains one of Manchester United's greatest captains of all time. The legendary footballer was known for his controversies but he was also a fierce leader on the pitch. Keane was revered among his peers due to his aggression, passion and leadership skills during his tenure.

Keane was not only a great leader but was also a complete midfielder. He could initiate attacks with his creative prowess and also knew how to stop the opposition with his crunching tackles.

Keane led Manchester United to unprecedented success since taking over the captain's armband in 1997. The Red Devils were crowned English champions nine times and also won the continental treble under Keane's leadership. The Irishman has inspired many leaders due to his nature and immense dominance.

#1 Bryan Robson (1982-1994)

Bryan Robson remains the longest-serving captain in Manchester United history. He is known for his strong mentality and leading from the front. The legendary Englishman featured over 450 times with the Red Devils, scoring 99 goals for the club.

Like Keane, Robson was an all-rounder at the heart of United's midfield. As captain, he led the Red Devils to three FA Cup titles, among other notable accolades. Later, Robson had to share the captain's armband with Steve Bruce but he was pivotal during United's two title winning campaigns.

Robson's tenacity and sheer will to succeed made him an immensely popular leader. He inspired future captains to follow in his footsteps.