5 world-class players Manchester United failed to replace

Roy Keane will go down as one of the best midfielders in the history of Manchester United and the Premier League.

The Irishman spent 12 long years with the Red Devils, winning pretty much every club-level trophy on offer. His standout abilities were his leadership and his never-say-die attitude.

Keane captained Manchester United to seven Premier League titles, four FA Cups and one UEFA Champions League. His aggressive style of play and competitiveness often gave his side the edge over their opponents.

Keane is one player United have not come close to replacing. United's midfield has often been described as a problem area. The lack of a proper defensive midfielder in the squad has led to an imbalance in the middle of the park.

While Bruno Fernandes has been a welcome addition, the likes of Fred and Scott McTominay have not been consistent enough to help the side challenge for top honors.

#2. Paul Scholes

Paul Scholes is one of the most decorated midfielders in Premier League history.

The Englishman spent the entirety of his footballing career with Manchester United. Spanning for close to 20 years, Scholes' time with the club yielded spectacular results: 11 Premier League titles, four FA Cups and two UEFA Champions League trophies.

Known for his impeccable passing and excellent distribution, Scholes was often seen nestled at the base of the midfield. He was capable of switching play effortlessly and also had a lethal long shot in his locker.

Scholes is often regarded as the quintessential central midfielder. United have tried to replace him many times since his retirement in 2013 but a worthy successor is yet to be found.

#1. Wayne Rooney

Rooney joined United from Everton in 2004 and the rest, as they say, is history. Known for his aggressive nature and eye for goal, Rooney was signed as a 18-year-old and went on to become one of the club's biggest-ever legends.

The Englishman's biggest skills were his versatility and intelligence on the field. Deployed in several positions throughout his career, Rooney showed that he was capable of creating value from anywhere on the field.

Rooney's best attribute was his goalscoring ability. In his 13 years with the club, Rooney scored 253 goals and recorded 161 assists in 559 appearances across all competitions. He is still the club's record goalscorer and holds a tally that will not be surpassed anytime soon.

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“When you start supporting a football club, you don’t support it because of the trophies, or a player, or history, you support it because you found yourself somewhere there; found a place where you belong.”

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5 world-class players Manchester United failed to replace

#3. Roy Keane

#2. Paul Scholes

#1. Wayne Rooney