The 20 Greatest Manchester United Players of All Time — Ranked from 20 to 1
Manchester United has been home to some of football's most iconic names. From attacking brilliance to defensive rock-solid consistency, these are the top 20 Red Devils ever, ranked from 20 to 1 based on legacy, impact, and greatness.
20. Robin van Persie
Van Persie made an instant impact after arriving from Arsenal in 2012, firing United to their 20th league title in his debut season. His 26-goal haul and stunning volleys made him a fan favorite despite a short three-year stay.
19. Ole Gunnar Solskjær
Nicknamed the "Baby-faced Assassin," Solskjær scored 126 goals for United, most famously the 1999 Champions League final winner. Loved for his humble demeanor and clutch performances, he later returned to manage the club.
18. Denis Law
Known as “The King,” Law scored 237 goals for the club and remains one of the most feared forwards in United’s history. He won the Ballon d’Or in 1964 and holds the club record for most goals in a single season (46).
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17. Andy Cole
A clinical striker with 187 Premier League goals, Cole helped deliver the historic 1999 treble. His partnership with Dwight Yorke remains one of the most iconic attacking duos in English football.
16. Gary Neville
A one-club man, Neville was a vocal leader and defensive stalwart at right-back. He won eight Premier League titles and became an embodiment of loyalty and grit at United.
15. David de Gea
Signed in 2011, De Gea became United’s standout player during challenging post-Ferguson years. He earned four Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year awards and was known for impossible saves and consistent brilliance.
14. Ruud van Nistelrooy
A natural goal scorer, Van Nistelrooy scored 150 goals in just 219 games. His predatory instincts and ruthless finishing made him one of the deadliest strikers to ever wear the red shirt.
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13. Nemanja Vidić
A fearless and commanding center-back, Vidić captained United and won five league titles and a Champions League. His physicality and aerial dominance were crucial during the club's dominant years.
12. Edwin van der Sar
Van der Sar brought experience and stability, helping United win the 2008 Champions League and setting a world record for clean sheets. Even into his 40s, he was one of the best keepers in the world.
11. Cristiano Ronaldo
Ronaldo's first stint at United saw him win three league titles and the 2008 Ballon d’Or. His skill, pace, and goals turned him into a global icon and one of the best players to ever grace Old Trafford.
10. Eric Cantona
Cantona was the catalyst for United's 1990s dominance, blending flair, arrogance, and leadership. With four Premier League titles and an unforgettable presence, he became a cult hero at Old Trafford.
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9. Rio Ferdinand
Ferdinand brought class and composure to the heart of United’s defense. He won six league titles and the Champions League, forming a legendary partnership with Nemanja Vidić.
8. Peter Schmeichel
United’s iconic goalkeeper through the 1990s, Schmeichel was key to their treble-winning 1999 campaign. His commanding presence and shot-stopping heroics made him one of the best ever between the sticks.
7. Ryan Giggs
Giggs played a record 963 times for United and won 13 league titles across a remarkable 24-year career. His pace, dribbling, and adaptability made him a cornerstone of Ferguson’s United.
6. Roy Keane
Keane was United’s hard-nosed leader who demanded nothing but the best. His drive, aggression, and leadership led the club to seven league titles and endless memorable moments.
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5. George Best
An entertainer on and off the pitch, Best dazzled with his dribbling and flair. The 1968 Ballon d’Or winner helped United lift their first European Cup and remains a cult figure in football history.
4. David Beckham
Famous for his pinpoint crosses and free-kicks, Beckham was more than just a global icon. He helped United to six league titles and a Champions League before moving on to make an impact around the world.
3. Paul Scholes
Scholes was the silent genius of United’s midfield for two decades. His passing, shooting, and intelligence earned praise from legends and helped deliver 11 Premier League titles and two Champions League wins.
2. Wayne Rooney
United’s all-time leading scorer with 253 goals, Rooney was the ultimate team player. His versatility and hunger for success brought five league titles, a Champions League, and countless magical moments.
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1. Sir Bobby Charlton
Charlton survived tragedy to lead United to triumph, lifting the European Cup in 1968. With 758 appearances and 249 goals, he remains the heart and soul of Manchester United’s identity.
