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Patrice Evra:
Patrice Evra is one of the best signings that Sir Alex Ferguson made in the latter half of his managerial career at Manchester United. Playing for AS Monaco until 2006, Evra had attracted interest from the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool and Real Madrid too.
However, the opportunity of playing under the tutelage of Sir Alex meant that Patrice decided to choose to move to Old Trafford rather than the other superpowers. Evra was undoubtedly the best fullback during his era as he bossed the left wing with his supreme pace and crossing ability.
He could go past players with relative ease, which made him a threatening factor going ahead. Evra was uncompromising in defence and tracked back in time, whilst using his tactical awareness and tackling ability to thwart attacks from the left flank.
During his eight and a half year stay at Old Trafford, Evra was capped 273 times in the Premier League and was a true leader on the pitch. He was involved in some controversial incidents that hampered his career midway through his stay though; particularly his feud with Luis Suarez.
However, he always had the back of the gaffer and enjoyed a memorable stint with the Red Devils.
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Nemanja Vidic:
Probably the best defender in the league during his time at Old Trafford, Nemanja Vidic formed a remarkable partnership with Rio Ferdinand at the heart of the defence. The Serbian joined Manchester United on 5th January 2005, although the Red Devils were avid admirers of the player for a long time before then.
Known for his astute defending skills, aerial ability, and leadership qualities, Vidic was a respected figure among the masses. He commanded respect among his teammates and was the team’s official captain for quite a long time. Vidic excelled playing alongside Rio Ferdinand, as both the players had similar skill sets and their ability to remain concentrated for long portions of the game helped Sir Alex form the best defensive partnership in the country.
The centre-half had the knack of scoring vital headers that gave his team advantage at crucial moments. Vidic appeared 211 times for Manchester United in the league and was an important member of their Champions League-winning campaign in 2007/08.
A favourite of the manager and the fans alike, the fans grew emotional during his last home game against Hull City on 6th May 2014. They even made a chant on him which went like;
Nemanja, oh oh-oh
Nemanja, oh oh-oh
He comes from Serbia
He will f*****g murder ya
Nemanja, oh oh-oh
Quite a farewell, eh?
