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Writer's pictureNicole Hayes

Is Manchester turning BLUE?

For decades, Manchester United have dominated Manchester and Europe. However, since the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson, times have been tough for The Red Devils and they haven’t looked the same since. Sir Alex Ferguson will go down as one of the most successful managers in Premier League, if not, football history. He spent 27 years at Manchester United from 1986-2013. During his time at United he won; 2 Champions League titles, 13 Premier League titles, 5 FA Cups, 4 League Cups and 1 European Cup Winners' Cup.

It was a struggle on the blue side of Manchester, having a drought spell for decades on end. Although they were co-founders of the Premier League in 1992. However, after finishing ninth in its first season, they endured three seasons of struggle before being relegated in 1996.


Manchester City started picking up the paces with their iconic Premier League win back in 2012, with their 3-2 win against QPR. Augero’s famous last-minute winner snatched the title from Manchester United and they haven’t looked back since. Ever since then, Manchester City have won; 6 Premier League titles, 2 FA Cups, 6 League Cups, 4 Continental Cups, 2 Community Shields, 1 Super Cup and one European Cup.


Since the departure of Alex Ferguson in 2013, Manchester United have had 8 managers, winning only 5 trophies between them. United’s success has been nowhere near what they were compared to when Sir Alex was in charge, and their supporters are worried they will never be the same again. At the weekend, Manchester United hosted Manchester City at Old Trafford in the 191st Manchester Derby. In the previous 35 meetings between the two sides, City won 17, United won 14 and there were only 4 draws.

The Manchester derby went to the blue side of the City, with Manchester City taking all 3 points from a 3-0 victory. There have been statements made that the Manchester United lineup against City was the worst starting XI for decades. Former Manchester United midfielder, Roy Keane, showed his frustration after the Manchester Derby, especially towards Bruno Fernandes. The United captain lost his temper countless times throughout the game and this angered Keane. He stated that Bruno Fernandes is a brilliant footballer however, he is not captain material. He continued to say that Bruno’s attitude in the match was unacceptable.

What is it going to take for Manchester United to start picking up form again? To push for the title? Even for the top four? Or just keep a Premier League clean sheet at Old Trafford? There is a very long way to go for Manchester United to come close to their former glory. The issues both on and off the pitch have the Red Devils in a mess, whilst their city rivals are chasing a record fourth straight Premier League title.


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