As we embark on another Manchester derby, the city prepares itself for the fallout.
Which is the bigger club? What treble was better? Which side of Manchester has more historical bragging rights?
Well, we thought we’d jump in and put together an all-time XI made up of players from both sides.
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GK – Peter Schmeichel
The only player on this list to have donned both shirts.
United’s Premier League dominance in the ’90s had numerous contributing factors, but none more significant than the formidable presence of Peter Schmeichel in goal.
The legendary Dane, acquired by the Red Devils for a mere £505,000 in 1991, departed eight years later as a five-time league winner, amassing 292 top-flight appearances.
Schmeichel’s unparalleled contributions earned him the distinction of being the sole goalkeeper to clinch the Premier League Player of the Season award.
Additionally, he secured a spot in the inaugural Premier League PFA Team of the Year.
RB – Kyle Walker
Walker often flies under the radar, yet he’s consistently demonstrated his prowess as a top-tier player over the years.
Few full-backs can rival his skill in one-on-one situations. His lightning pace and aggressive style set him apart, complemented by a wealth of tactical acumen acquired throughout his career, rendering him a formidable all-round defender.
A linchpin in City’s treble-winning season, Walker boasts an impressive array of club football accolades. As a stalwart of both Manchester City and England, he undeniably ranks among the greats of the game.
CB – Vincent Kompany
Kompany’s place in the team is indisputable, thanks to his unforgettable goal against Leicester.
Arriving during a pivotal period of transition for City, he brought essential strength and leadership when the club was still adapting to newfound financial resources.
Under his captaincy, City transformed into the formidable force they are today.
Kompany’s defensive prowess was unparalleled – possessing speed, strength, and exceptional ball control.
With 360 appearances, a Player of the Season award in 2011/12, four league titles, and numerous other honours, his legacy at City is truly remarkable.
CB – Rio Ferdinand
Rio Ferdinand’s illustrious career at Manchester United is marked by impressive statistics and a trophy-laden tenure.
With 455 appearances, he secured an impressive 14 trophies, including 6 Premier League titles, 3 League Cups, 4 Community Shields, the Champions League, and the FIFA Club World Cup.
As a £30m signing from Leeds, Ferdinand exemplified how substantial investments could yield significant returns.
Over a decade with United, the England international played an integral role in one of the club’s most celebrated defensive pairings.
LB – Denis Irwin
With an impressive record of 529 appearances and 33 goals, Denis Irwin left an indelible mark during his time at Manchester United, accumulating a staggering 19 trophies.
Among these were 7 Premier League titles, 3 FA Cups, a League Cup, 4 Community Shields, the Champions League, the European Cup Winners Cup, the European Super Cup, and the Intercontinental Cup.
Renowned for his proficiency in free kicks and penalties, Irwin was a trailblazer as a goalscoring defender in an era before it became commonplace.
Widely considered one of Sir Alex’s greatest-ever signings, the Irishman’s impact on the club’s success is undeniable.
CDM – Yaya Touré
Choosing between Roy Keane and Yaya Touré for this spot was a tough one. But let’s talk about Yaya during the 2013/14 season – he was just on another level!
He seemed to effortlessly outclass opponents, making them look like mere children on the field.
Touré’s blend of brute strength and technical finesse allowed him to score and assist with ease, establishing himself as a true force to be reckoned with.
Operating from a deep-lying position, he dominated the Premier League for multiple seasons, cementing his status as a Manchester City legend.
CM – Paul Scholes
Widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders England has ever produced, Scholes epitomised loyalty as another distinguished member of the ‘Class of 92’, remaining loyal to Manchester United throughout his career.
Blessed with exceptional technical skills, his precise passing, football intelligence, and powerful performances thrilled Old Trafford fans for years.
With an astounding record of 718 appearances and 155 goals, Paul Scholes certainly left his mark Manchester United, collecting an impressive haul of 25 trophies.
Among these were 11 Premier League titles, 2 Champions Leagues and much more.
CM – Kevin De Bruyne
De Bruyne has cemented his status as the top midfielder globally in recent years.
Possessing perhaps the finest right foot in the game, he can orchestrate play with precision passes, unleash thunderous shots, and deliver delicate through balls.
Having clinched every possible trophy with City, he’s now chasing the Premier League’s all-time assist record, currently third with 106, just four behind Cesc Fàbregas.
Surely he’s bound to surpass Ryan Giggs’ record of 160 soon. If only Chelsea hadn’t parted ways with him.
The treble is a final representation of just how good this guy is. He’s won it all.
LW – Cristiano Ronaldo
Say no more. In his first stint at United, Ronaldo made 292 appearances, netting 118 goals.
He clinched 9 trophies, including 3 Premier League titles, an FA Cup, 2 League Cups, a Community Shield, the Champions League, and the FIFA Club World Cup.
Having honed his skills at United, CR7 emerged as one of the greatest footballers in history.
His return to Old Trafford signified a desire to forge more unforgettable moments before calling time on his career.
ST – Wayne Rooney
Rooney surpassed Bobby Charlton to claim the title of United’s all-time top scorer.
With 559 appearances and 253 goals, he contributed significantly to the club’s success under Ferguson, securing 13 trophies, including 5 Premier League titles, 3 League Cups, 3 Community Shields, as well as the Champions League and FIFA Club World Cup.
Dubbed ‘The Wonder Boy,’ Rooney became an iconic figure at Old Trafford, epitomising the club’s winning spirit by securing every major trophy.
RW – David Silva
A diminutive Spanish maestro, Silva possessed exceptional versatility, often deployed on the right wing.
His astute footballing intellect and exquisite skills distinguished him in the Premier League.
Silva’s adeptness with the ball, intelligent movement, and penchant for bending shots into the far corner marked him as a world-class talent.
With 20 goals, 93 assists, and numerous Team of the Year accolades, Silva’s impact on the game made him an indispensable figure at City.
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