Numerous football enthusiasts would contend that Sir Alex Ferguson collaborated with an extensive roster of world-class professionals during his 26-year tenure as Manchester United manager. Nevertheless, the individual in question controversially asserted that only four of his former players were genuinely deserving of world-class status.
David Beckham was not included in Ferguson’s list; however, the English icon, who has been awarded a knighthood, was not the only legend to be overlooked. Wayne Rooney, Roy Keane, Ruud van Nistelrooy, Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic, and Peter Schmeichel were among the notable players who were not considered world-class by Fergie.
Numerous former United players, as well as a few others, would be considered world-class by those who are involved in the sport. Nevertheless, it would require a courageous individual to challenge Ferguson, who is widely regarded as the finest football manager in history, particularly given his consistent collaboration with these players every day.
Ferguson Considered ‘World-Class’ by Four Players
Eric Cantona
Numerous football enthusiasts would contend that Sir Alex Ferguson collaborated with an extensive roster of world-class professionals during his 26-year tenure as Manchester United manager. Nevertheless, the individual in question controversially asserted that only four of his former players were genuinely deserving of world-class status.
David Beckham was not included in Ferguson’s list; however, the English icon, who has been awarded a knighthood, was not the only legend to be overlooked. Wayne Rooney, Roy Keane, Ruud van Nistelrooy, Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic, and Peter Schmeichel were among the notable players who were not considered world-class by Fergie.
Numerous former United players, as well as a few others, would be considered world-class by those who are involved in the sport. Nevertheless, it would require a courageous individual to challenge Ferguson, who is widely regarded as the finest football manager in history, particularly given his consistent collaboration with these players every day.
Ferguson Considered ‘World-Class’ by Four Players
Eric Cantona
Ryan Giggs
No player in Manchester United’s 146-year history has appeared for the club more than Ryan Giggs (963). Giggs, one of Ferguson’s most significant players, achieved a record 13 Premier League titles with the Red Devils, in addition to four FA Cups, four League Cups, and two UEFA Champions Leagues.
The Welshman retired as one of the most decorated players of all time, and his exploits often went under the radar due to the star-studded character of Ferguson’s respective sides, such was the extent of his trophy-laced cabinet of silverware. Giggs became a bonafide legend at Old Trafford as a result of his mazy runs and crucial moments, which earned him a reputation as one of the most thrilling talents to grace the turf.
Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most renowned footballers of all time, underwent a remarkable transformation from a child to a man under Ferguson. The two continue to maintain an extraordinary father-son relationship to this day. Ronaldo, the sole player from the 21st century to secure the Ballon d’Or at Manchester United, spent six seasons at Old Trafford during which he won three Premier League titles, the FA Cup, and the UEFA Champions League.
The goalscoring sensation has established a career that surpasses that of the majority, earning him the moniker “Mr. Champions League.” Given that he has contributed the most goals and assists in Europe’s most prestigious competition, who are we to dispute his accomplishments?
Paul Scholes, like his erstwhile teammate Giggs, is commonly considered one of the greatest English footballers of all time. He is a one-club man. Scholes, who possessed exceptional vision and technique, would be responsible for scoring some of the most breathtaking goals in the club’s history and would also dictate the tempo of the most significant matches.
The retired midfielder has been the subject of numerous glowing testimonials from a variety of legendary figures, including Zinedine Zidane and Pep Guardiola. It is not difficult to comprehend why. Scholes’ capacity to dictate games at his own tempo was unparalleled, as he was gifted enough to make a pass on a sixpence. A Premier League legend.
“I am not disparaging or criticizing any of the exceptional players I had the privilege of collaborating with; however, it is important to remember that the team consistently emerged victorious, not the four individuals. With respect to individuals, we were incapable of prevailing. We required the foundation of a team at all times.
The managerial great then emphasized that only two defenders had ever won the Ballon d’Or, with the term “world-class” typically referring to attackers. This served to substantiate his argument. Additionally, he reiterated his four choices, asserting that he was the only individual permitted to express an opinion on individuals whom he considered to be world-class during his tenure at United.
“Only two defenders have ever received the Ballon d’Or award in the past 50 years.” The Scot further stated, “I would have believed that Franz Beckenbauer was a playmaker for the Bayern team and the great German team, but it is debatable what you would call him.” “Fabio Cannavaro was the sole defender.” He is the sole defender to have achieved this feat in the past 50 years, so it is possible that someone is correct. It is important to note that this is purely a matter of opinion. I believe that I am capable of doing so, and that is my personal opinion.
Beckham, who disclosed additional details about his turbulent relationship with Ferguson in his captivating four-part Netflix documentary that was released in 2023, was questioned by BBC News in 2015 regarding whether he felt belittled by being excluded from his former boss’s list of world-class players. The former England captain responded in a unique manner, discussing his gratitude for the opportunity to have played for arguably the finest manager of all time. When inquired about his feelings of affront, Beckham responded:
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