Ranking Manchester United's 5 best captains in Premier League history

Manchester United have attained unparalleled heights since the inception of the Premier League in 1992. The Red Devils are undoubtedly the most successful club in England, winning the English top flight 20 times and the Champions League three times.

With 13 league titles in the Premier League era, Manchester United have basked in glory under Sir Alex Ferguson's tutelage. Their immense success led to their rise in fame, attracting countless number of fans across the globe. However, United have endured a torrid tenure in recent times since the departure of their legendary coach in 2013. They haven't won the Premier League since.

The success of any club often depends on the leader of the squad. Manchester United are no different and they have tasted fruitful tenures under some quality captains. On that note, let us take a look at

Manchester United's 5 best captains in Premier League history

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#5 Eric Cantona

Eric Cantona spent five seasons at Old Trafford

Eric Cantona was one of Sir Alex Ferguson's best signings at Manchester United. The French legend was an entertainer on and off the pitch, leaving an incredible mark in the Premier League. During his five-season tenure at Old Trafford, Cantona racked up 81 goals and 52 assists for the Red Devils.

Cantona was a magnificent forward renowned for his creativity and decisive nature in the final third. The Frenchman helped Manchester United dominate their initial years in the Premier League era with his prolific goalscoring and creative prowess.

'King Eric' was made captain for the 1996-97 season, taking over from Steve Bruce. He became the first foreign footballer to wear the armband for Manchester United. In his one and only campaign as leader, Cantona led United to their 11th league title.

Much to the shock of fans, Cantona announced his retirement at the end of the campaign, marking the end of his brief tenure as the club's leader.

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#4 Nemanja Vidic

MLS All-Star Game - Manchester United v MLS All-Stars

Widely regarded as one of the greatest centre-backs in the Premier League, Nemanja Vidic was a true 'Red Devil' in nature. The legendary Serbian was a rock at the back for Manchester United, uncompromising and unbreakable at times.

Vidic was a solid defender in his prime, forging one of the most devastating defensive partnerships with Rio Ferdinand. The Serbian's towering presence at the heart of United's defense made him a nightmare for the attackers.

Nemanja Vidic took over the captaincy following Gary Neville's departure from the club in 2011. The legendary centre-back led the Red Devils to two Premier League titles in three seasons.

#3 Steve Bruce

Newcastle United v Tottenham Hotspur - Premier League

Steve Bruce was among the long list of fearless centre-backs Manchester United have had in their illustrious history. The Englishman was a born leader and formed one of the most celebrated defensive partnerships in the club's history with Gary Pallister.

As a defender, Steve Bruce was renowned for his agility, aggressiveness and no-nonsense tackling at the back. The legendary centre-back was a fearless character, which earned him the captain's armband following Bryan Robson's departure in 1994.

Under Bruce's leadership, Manchester United cemented their place as Premier League giants. He led the Red Devils to three league titles and two FA Cups. He notably helped the club win domestic doubles in the 1993-94 and 1995-96 campaigns.

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#2 Gary Neville

Manchester United v Liverpool - Premier League

A 'one-club man' like Paul Scholes, Gary Neville was one of the footballers from the famed 'Class of 92' batch. Under the guidance of Sir Alex Ferguson, the legendary defender flourished as a player for almost two decades. He currently holds fifth spot in the list of all-time appearances for Manchester United (602).

Undoubtedly, Gary Neville played a massive part in United's success in the Premier League era. He made the right-back position his own by delivering powerful performances consistently over the years. The legendary right-back was the successor to Roy Keane as captain and led the club to new heights during his six-year tenure.

During his tenure, Gary Neville led Manchester United to two Premier League titles and one Champions League, among other notable accolades.

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#1 Roy Keane

Manchester United v Leicester City - Premier League

It comes as no surprise as Roy Keane takes our #1 spot. The legendary midfielder was a warrior on the pitch and epitomizes everything a true leader should be. Keane was strong, aggressive and passionate, which is why Ferguson hailed him as a true leader despite the controversies.

Keane was not only a sensational character but also very good at his job. The Irishman was a complete package in midfield and slowly became one of the finest in the Premier League era. He could initiate attacks with his creative prowess or stop opponents' approach with his tackles. Keane could do anything his team needed to do.

Under Keane's leadership, Manchester United were at the pinnacle of club football. The Red Devils won nine league titles and a Continental treble in the 1998-99 campaign with Roy Keane as their leader. The Irish warrior gave everything when he was on the pitch which is why he is still celebrated by the fans.