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What are the most controversial moments in the history of Manchester United?

Red Devils in the eye of the storm! Ranking of the most controversial moments in Manchester United history

By Lucas Cabrera

Ole Gunnar Solskjær and Eric Cantona's flying kick to a fan.
Ole Gunnar Solskjær and Eric Cantona's flying kick to a fan.

Manchester United, a giant of global football, is much more than a sports club; it is a symbol, a passion that transcends borders and generations. But like any colossus, its history is dotted with controversies, moments when glory has been tarnished by polemics. In this article, we will delve into the most resounding scandals that have shaken the foundations of Old Trafford, from questionable refereeing decisions to incidents involving its stars.

Prepare for a journey through the dark side of the "Theatre of Dreams," where greatness and controversy intertwine in a fascinating narrative that invites us to reflect on the fine line that separates glory from scandal.

"Fergie time": Myth or reality?

Sir Alex Ferguson, the legendary Manchester United manager, is an iconic figure in world football. However, his legacy is also marked by controversy. "Fergie Time," that additional stoppage time that the referee granted in Manchester United matches, especially when the team needed to come back, generated suspicion and accusations of refereeing favoritism. Was it just another strategy of the astute Ferguson or proof of his influence on referees?

Beyond the speculation, "Fergie Time" became a symbol of Manchester United's determination to win at all costs, a quality that, although controversial, was also key to their success.

Roy Keane vs. Patrick Vieira: The battle of the titans

The duels between Roy Keane and Patrick Vieira, captains of Manchester United and Arsenal respectively, are legends of English football. Their clashes in midfield were pure passion and tension, with hard tackles, verbal provocations and the odd scuffle.

Keane and Vieira embodied the essence of English football: total commitment, grit and fierce rivalry. Their battles on the field were a spectacle in themselves, a reflection of the intensity and emotion that was experienced in every match between these two historic teams.

Eric Cantona and the flying kick: An icon of rebellion

In 1995, Eric Cantona, one of the most charismatic and talented players of Manchester United, starred in an incident that left the world of football stunned. After being sent off in a match against Crystal Palace, Cantona delivered a flying kick to a fan who insulted him from the stands. This episode, which earned him a long suspension, fueled his legend as a rebellious and controversial player.

Cantona's kick was not just an act of violence, but also an expression of his indomitable personality and his rejection of hypocrisy. Despite the controversy, his figure grew even larger, becoming a symbol of rebellion and authenticity in football.

The Giggs case: Extramarital scandal and reputation at stake

Ryan Giggs, the legendary Manchester United player, was an example of professionalism and loyalty. However, his image was tarnished by an extramarital scandal that shook the foundations of the club. It was discovered that Giggs had had an eight-year relationship with his brother's wife, which generated great controversy and damaged his reputation.

The Giggs case highlighted the double standards that exist in the world of football, where impeccable behavior is demanded of players on the field, but their mistakes off it are tolerated.

José Mourinho and Paul Pogba: An explosive relationship

José Mourinho's time as Manchester United manager was marked by tension and controversy, especially in his relationship with French midfielder Paul Pogba. Their constant public clashes, their tactical disagreements and their incendiary statements created a toxic atmosphere in the dressing room and contributed to the team's decline.

The relationship between Mourinho and Pogba was a clear example of how a lack of communication and a clash of egos can affect a team's performance.

The crisis of results and the departure of Ole Gunnar Solskjær

After the dismissal of José Mourinho, Manchester United opted for the return of their legendary player Ole Gunnar Solskjær as coach. However, despite a promising start, the team failed to maintain consistency and strung together a series of bad results that led to the dismissal of the Norwegian coach.

Solskjær's departure exposed the lack of a solid sports project at Manchester United, as well as the difficulty of finding a coach who can return the team to the path of success.

What does the future hold for Manchester United?

After a tumultuous season, Manchester United is in a moment of transition. With a new coach and a renewed squad, the club seeks to recover its identity and return to competing for titles. Will it be able to overcome its recent controversies and return to the path of success?

The future of Manchester United is uncertain, but one thing is certain: the club will continue to be a protagonist in the history of world football, for better or for worse.

Manchester United is a club that arouses passions and generates controversy in equal measure. Its history is full of glorious moments, but also of controversial episodes that have marked its destiny. From "Fergie Time" to the relationship between Mourinho and Pogba, the club has been the protagonist of scandals that have gone around the world.

In this note, we have reviewed some of the most controversial moments in the history of Manchester United, but the list is much longer. The club is a hotbed of emotions and passions, and there will always be new controversies that fuel debate and conversation among fans.

What you should know about the most controversial moments Manchester United history:

  • "Fergie Time" and accusations of refereeing favoritism.
  • The epic duels between Roy Keane and Patrick Vieira.
  • Eric Cantona's flying kick to a fan.
  • Ryan Giggs' extramarital scandal.
  • The explosive relationship between José Mourinho and Paul Pogba.