Ranking Manchester United’s Five Best Players Of The Premier League Era
Since the inception of the Premier League in 1992, Manchester United has been a dominant force, securing numerous titles and cementing its place as one of the most successful clubs in English football history.
Throughout the years, the club has been blessed with extraordinary talent, with players who have left an indelible mark on the game.
Among these luminaries are David Beckham, Paul Scholes, Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, and Roy Keane, each contributing uniquely to the club’s illustrious history.
In this article, we delve into the legacy of these exceptional individuals and rank them based on their impact, skill, and influence during their time at Old Trafford.
Cristiano Ronaldo
Arguably one of the greatest footballers of all time, Cristiano Ronaldo’s impact at Manchester United cannot be overstated.
Arriving as a young prodigy from Sporting Lisbon in 2003, Ronaldo quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with.
Blessed with astonishing pace, technique, and an insatiable hunger for success, he played a pivotal role in United’s dominance both domestically and in Europe.
During his first tenure at the club, Ronaldo won three Premier League titles, a UEFA Champions League trophy, and numerous individual accolades — including the Ballon d’Or.
While his second stint at Old Trafford wasn’t quite as successful, as he failed to make Man United more favourable to those who bet on football games, Ronaldo is still an icon of the club.
Paul Scholes
Revered for his exceptional vision, passing accuracy, and thunderous long-range strikes, Paul Scholes was the heartbeat of Manchester United’s midfield for nearly two decades.
A product of the club’s youth academy, Scholes possessed an innate understanding of the game, dictating play with effortless grace.
His ability to control the tempo of matches and deliver pinpoint passes made him a linchpin in Sir Alex Ferguson’s successful sides.
Scholes won 11 Premier League titles and two Champions League trophies during his time at United, solidifying his status as one of the club’s greatest-ever players.
Wayne Rooney
Bursting onto the scene as a teenage sensation, Wayne Rooney’s blend of power, skill, and tenacity made him an instant hit at Manchester United.
With a knack for scoring spectacular goals and leading by example on the pitch, Rooney became the club’s all-time leading goalscorer — surpassing the legendary Sir Bobby Charlton.
His versatility allowed him to thrive in various attacking roles, while his fierce determination and work rate endeared him to fans worldwide.
Rooney’s trophy haul includes five Premier League titles and a Champions League triumph, further cementing his legacy at Old Trafford.
David Beckham
Renowned for his precision crosses, deadly set-piece ability, and glamorous off-field persona, David Beckham remains one of the most iconic figures in Manchester United’s history.
A product of the club’s youth system, Beckham rose to prominence as part of the famous Class of ’92 alongside Ryan Giggs, Scholes, and the Neville brothers.
His exquisite right foot delivered countless memorable moments, including crucial goals and assists in United’s treble-winning season of 1998-99.
While his departure to Real Madrid in 2003 marked the end of his United career, Beckham’s impact both on and off the pitch left an enduring legacy at the club.
Roy Keane
Known for his combative style and fierce leadership, Roy Keane was the epitome of Manchester United’s fighting spirit during the Premier League era.
As captain, Keane drove his teammates to new heights with his commanding presence and never-say-die attitude.
While his time at United was marked by controversy at times, Keane’s influence on the pitch was undeniable — helping the club secure numerous titles, including seven Premier League crowns and a Champions League triumph in 1999.
