A Left-Back Worth His Weight in Gold: Evra's United Years

Patrice Evra, the former Manchester United left-back, was once valued at a staggering €27 million, making him one of the most expensive defenders in the world at the time. This peak valuation came during the 2010-2011 season, a period when the Frenchman was considered one of the best full-backs in the Premier League and a key figure in Sir Alex Ferguson's side.

Evra's journey at Old Trafford began in 2006 when he joined from Monaco. His arrival coincided with a period of significant success for the club, and the French defender quickly established himself as a first-team regular. His marauding runs down the left flank, combined with his defensive solidity, made him a fans' favourite.

Why was Evra so valuable?

Several factors contributed to Evra's high valuation:

• Consistent performances: Evra was a model of consistency throughout his time at Manchester United. His ability to deliver consistently high-level performances week in, week out made him one of the most reliable defenders in the league.
• Winning mentality: Evra was a born winner. His desire to succeed and his ability to perform under pressure made him a valuable asset to any team.
• Leadership qualities: As one of the senior players in the Manchester United squad, Evra played a crucial role in inspiring his teammates. His leadership qualities were evident both on and off the pitch.

Evra's legacy at Manchester United

Evra's time at Manchester United was a resounding success. He won numerous trophies, including five Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League. His performances for both club and country earned him widespread acclaim.

The impact of his valuation

Evra's high valuation had a significant impact on the transfer market. It helped to set a new benchmark for the price of left-backs and demonstrated the increasing value of full-backs who were not only defensively solid but also capable of contributing to the attack.

A lasting legacy

Even though Evra has since left Manchester United, his legacy at the club lives on. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest left-backs in the club's history. His contributions to the team helped to define a generation of Manchester United players.