Ultimate nemeses: The players who have haunted Manchester United in the Premier League

Manchester United have faced some of the best players in football history, and over the years, certain stars have made a habit of punishing the Red Devils. From clinical finishers to creative playmakers, these are the players with the most combined goals and assists against United in Premier League history. Starting from number 12, here are the names who have consistently delivered on the biggest stage.

12. Harry Kane – 8 Goal Contributions

Harry Kane has often been a thorn in Manchester United’s side, scoring and assisting crucial goals in memorable clashes. Whether for Tottenham or later stages of his Premier League career, the England captain’s intelligent movement and finishing made him a constant danger. His ability to find space in tight areas allowed him to exploit even United’s strongest defensive lines. Though he has since left England, his impact on this rivalry remains unforgettable.

11. Pascal Groß – 8 Goal Contributions

Pascal Groß might not be the flashiest name on this list, but his record against Manchester United speaks volumes. The German midfielder has been at the heart of Brighton’s success in recent years, often orchestrating play and scoring decisive goals. His composure, intelligence, and knack for arriving in the right place at the right time have made him a nightmare for United’s midfield and defense alike. Groß’s performances perfectly illustrate how modern tactical players can outsmart even elite opponents.

10. Abdoulaye Doucouré – 8 Goal Contributions

Abdoulaye Doucouré’s inclusion is one of the most surprising, yet fully deserved. The powerful midfielder has scored and assisted key goals for both Watford and Everton against United, showcasing his tireless energy and instinct for goal. His box-to-box influence often disrupted United’s rhythm, adding both physicality and end product. Doucouré may not always get the headlines, but against United, he’s consistently made his presence felt.

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9. Bernardo Silva – 8 Goal Contributions

Bernardo Silva’s elegance and precision have made him one of Manchester City’s most important players, and he has repeatedly made United suffer. His technical brilliance and work rate allow him to dictate games, whether creating or finishing chances himself. The Portuguese playmaker’s ability to thrive in high-pressure derbies has been crucial in City’s dominance during the Pep Guardiola era. Against Manchester United, Bernardo’s intelligence and consistency have made him one of the most frustrating opponents to face.

8. Les Ferdinand – 9 Goal Contributions

A Premier League legend of the 1990s, Les Ferdinand had the perfect combination of power and finesse. His strong aerial presence and clinical finishing caused chaos for Manchester United’s defenders on numerous occasions. Whether playing for QPR, Newcastle, or Tottenham, Ferdinand never shied away from taking on the league’s best. His nine goal contributions are a testament to his consistency and fearless approach in the biggest matches.

7. Gylfi Þór Sigurðsson – 9 Goal Contributions

Gylfi Sigurðsson’s creativity and precision from distance made him a long-time menace to Manchester United. The Icelandic playmaker often delivered standout performances, scoring stunning free-kicks and providing crucial assists. His calmness under pressure and knack for producing moments of magic were especially evident in meetings with United. Sigurðsson’s technical ability allowed him to rise above expectations and make a lasting mark against one of England’s most dominant clubs.

6. Steven Gerrard – 10 Goal Contributions

Few players relished facing Manchester United more than Steven Gerrard. As Liverpool’s captain and heartbeat, he embodied the fierce rivalry between the two clubs. His leadership and passion often translated into inspired performances, with Gerrard scoring and assisting in defining encounters. Whether from open play or penalties, he always found a way to influence games against United, cementing his status as one of the greatest Premier League midfielders of all time.

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5. Robbie Fowler – 11 Goal Contributions

Robbie Fowler, known as “God” to Liverpool fans, had a habit of scoring in big games—and Manchester United were often on the receiving end. His natural finishing ability and sharp instincts made him one of the most feared strikers of the 1990s. Fowler’s goals against United came in moments that mattered, often swinging the momentum Liverpool’s way. His rivalry with United was built on passion, precision, and pure footballing instinct.

4. Erling Haaland – 11 Goal Contributions

Despite only a handful of appearances against Manchester United, Erling Haaland has already made a historic impact. The Norwegian striker’s power, movement, and clinical finishing have torn through United’s defense time and again. With an astonishing goals-per-game ratio, Haaland represents a new generation of dominance in Manchester derbies. His performances underline the shift in power in recent years, with City’s No. 9 leading the charge.

3. Thierry Henry – 12 Goal Contributions

Thierry Henry was poetry in motion, and his brilliance often shone brightest against the biggest opponents. Manchester United’s legendary defenses couldn’t always contain him, as Henry combined blistering pace with effortless technique. His goals against United were often spectacular—moments of genius that defined an era of Premier League football. For Arsenal fans, his battles with United were the ultimate showcase of skill meeting legacy.

2. Alan Shearer – 14 Goal Contributions

Alan Shearer, the Premier League’s all-time leading scorer, knew exactly how to hurt Manchester United. His strength, aerial dominance, and predatory instincts made him a constant threat, no matter the circumstances. Facing Sir Alex Ferguson’s teams never intimidated him—in fact, it often brought out his best. Shearer’s ability to deliver goals and assists against such elite opposition further solidified his legendary status.

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1. Mohamed Salah – 19 Goal Contributions

At the top of the list stands Mohamed Salah, who has written his own chapter in this storied rivalry. The Egyptian king has produced some unforgettable performances against Manchester United, scoring hat-tricks and decisive goals with ruthless efficiency. His pace, movement, and finishing have repeatedly exposed United’s defensive weaknesses. Salah’s total of 19 combined goals and assists is not only a record—it’s a symbol of dominance and consistency at the highest level. For Liverpool fans, few sights are sweeter than Salah celebrating yet another goal against their fiercest rivals.

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