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Manchester United is one of the most revered sides in the history of football. Though the team's current state is far from what the Red Devils were back in the day, the team is building itself around from scratch.
What left one of the most formidable sides, not just of England but the whole of Europe, in shambles? The answer is simple - Alex Ferguson's departure. The Scottish manager took a struggling Manchester United under his wing in 1986 and continued to lead them until 2013.
The 27-year spell under Ferguson is considered Manchester United's best period in their entire history. After an initial struggle, Sir Alex began leading the Red Devils to winning ways. It all started in 1992 when United brought back-to-back Premier League titles home.
Soon, a treble followed (1998-1999). After that, there was no looking back for Manchester United. Trophies and titles kept flowing to Old Trafford and Alex Ferguson created one of the strongest sides in the history of the sport.
The Scottish gaffer enjoyed one of his best years after Glazer ownership (2008-2013). He helped Manchester United secure 15 trophies in that era. Ferguson retired as one of the most decorated managers ever.
On the same note, let us take a look at
5 best Manchester United players of the Sir Alex Ferguson era.
Note: It is a very difficult task to pick the five best players who have played under Sir Alex as the Scottish manager has coached far too many great talents in his 27-year stay at Old Trafford. Do share your opinion in the comments section.
#5 Michael Carrick
Many would not expect the former Manchester United and England midfield to be making it to the top five list but Alex Ferguson himself might not agree to that.
Michael Carrick was one of the few go-to players possessed by the Scottish gaffer. While Fergie could boast multiple options in almost all positions, there was none like Michael Carrick within the squad.
Barcelona's legendary duo Guardiola and Xavi once lauded Carrick as the best holding midfielder they have ever seen. In a career spanning 12 years, the former Manchester United captain stacked countless trophies in his cabinet and remains one of the best players in the club's history.
#4 Paul Scholes
The epitome of 'one club player', Paul Scholes donned the famous red kit for over 720 matches across all competitions. The brilliant midfielder is widely considered one of the best players of his era, not just within Manchester United but the whole world.
Scholes, alongside Alex Ferguson, won a total of 25 trophies. The duo were deemed perfect for each other. They both left Manchester United together in 2013. The Englishman had earlier announced his retirement in 2011. However, he expressed his desire to re-join the club after a few months.
Scholes was welcomed by Sir Alex Ferguson as they spent another season at Old Trafford.
#3 Ryan Giggs
Ryan Giggs could not have missed this list. The Welshman was an influential and senior figure at the training ground and the dressing room for the majority of his career.
Being a part of Fergie's Fledglings and the Manchester United senior team simultaneously, Giggs helped Sir Alex make the most of his talent on youth and senior fronts.
Manchester United's downfall during the Moyes era saw Giggs being appointed as the interim player-manager of the team. He handled the club decently until a new manager was appointed in the form of Louis van Gaal.
The Welshman was a versatile player who proved useful for Ferguson anywhere in the final third. At the age of 41, Giggs was still running up and down the flanks for the Red Devils.
After announcing his retirement in 2014, the Manchester United legend was lauded for his dedication, club loyalty and longevity. A prominent member of the iconic Class of '92, Giggs remains one of the best players under Fergie.
#2 Wayne Rooney
Wayne Rooney aka Wazza, as lovingly called by his fans, touched the sky during his stint with Manchester United's all-time greatest manager, Sir Alex Ferguson.
After a scintillating tenure with Everton, Rooney was hot property during the 2004 summer transfer window. He was roped-in by Manchester United for an initial £20 million deal. The deal meant it was the highest ever price paid for an 18-year-old.
He became the club's leading goal scorer and grabbed the PFA Young Player of the Year award in the first year itself. As time passed, Rooney evolved himself into a goal machine and ended up as Manchester United's all-time top goal scorer across all competitions.
Credit for the same goes to Alex Ferguson, who molded Rooney into the player he turned out to be. Fergie was also successful in creating a lethal duo that involved Rooney and a certain player. More about him below.
#1 Cristiano Ronaldo
The Manchester United players happened to receive a special warning ahead of their friendly outing to Sporting CP in 2003. The warning was regarding Sporting Lisbon's number 28.
United lost the match 3-0 but they sealed victory by signing their number 28 immediately. That player happened to be none other than Cristiano Ronaldo!
Ronaldo, who considers Alex Ferguson a father figure, credits all his success to the Scottish manager. Fergie helped Cristiano Ronaldo shape his style of play and mentality. Under the watchful eye of Ferguson, the Portuguese forward conquered England within a short span of time.
He re-invented the number 7 shirt that no one could grace till date but himself. Cristiano left Manchester United for Real Madrid in 2009 with the intention of stepping-up in his career. Ronaldo maintained close contact with Sir Alex and was greatly influenced by his former boss for a comeback that happened this season.
