Manchester United legend Patrice Evra has identified two pivotal figures he believes are at the heart of the club’s ongoing difficulties, shedding light on when things began to decline at Old Trafford. In a candid interview, Evra discussed the club’s struggles since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013.
Ferguson, who led the team for 27 years and secured 13 Premier League titles, five FA Cups, four League Cups, and two Champions League trophies, left behind an unmatched legacy. However, since his exit, the club has faced challenges in regaining its former stature, with Evra suggesting that problems began with the departures of both himself and Ferguson.
Since Ferguson retired, numerous managers—David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, José Mourinho, and Ole Gunnar Solskjær—have attempted to restore Manchester United’s glory, but all have fallen short. Erik ten Hag, who joined in 2022 after a successful period at Ajax, has won the FA Cup and League Cup in his first two seasons, but his time has been marred by inconsistency, especially in the Premier League.
Evra’s remarks come at a critical juncture, as United is experiencing one of its worst starts in recent years. They finished eighth in the Premier League last season, their lowest position since the league’s inception, and currently sit in 12th place after eight matches this season. The pressure is on Ten Hag to rectify the situation, with concerns that the club’s issues might be more profound than just on-field performance.
In an interview with BBC Sport, Evra acknowledged his responsibility for the team’s struggles, suggesting that the absence of himself and Ferguson has left a leadership void. He expressed that playing for Manchester United used to be about pride and history, and lamented their early departures, which he believes deprived current players of role models.
Evra’s insights are significant given his role during United’s last successful era, where he was a key leader. He argues that the lack of strong personalities in the squad has contributed to the club’s ongoing turmoil since 2013. Although Ten Hag has made efforts to stabilize the team, Evra feels the chaos has persisted, leaving the players without clear guidance.
In contrast, fellow football legend Edgar Davids recently recounted how his career might have taken a different turn if he had chosen to play for Ferguson. Davids, who had the chance to join Manchester United in 1996 after leaving Ajax, ultimately chose AC Milan, citing the league’s prestige at the time. He reflected on his conversation with Ferguson as a memorable experience, noting Ferguson’s charm and intelligence.
While Davids has no regrets about his decision, his story illustrates the challenges even the greatest managers face in attracting top talent. Ferguson’s influence was instrumental in drawing players to United, but without his leadership, the club has struggled to remain an appealing destination for elite athletes. Together, Evra’s reflections and Davids’ experiences highlight the club’s decline since the exits of Ferguson and other key figures who once ensured its dominance.
