A special edition from the Manchester Evening News marks the anniversary of Sir Alex Ferguson's appointment as Manchester United manager on November 6, 1986, a date described as the moment a new era began for the club.
Over 27 years in charge, Ferguson led United to a record-breaking 38 trophies, a haul that underlined the impact of one individual on a single club over a sustained period. The edition charts a reign that changed the football landscape, during which United dominated back pages and often front pages with drama, glory and headline moments.
Ambition to Knock Liverpool Off Their Perch
From the start, Ferguson was clear about his ambition: to knock Liverpool off their perch after Merseyside dominance through the 1970s and 1980s. He transformed United into the era's defining force, creating a new generation of supporters for Britain's biggest club.
Ferguson's reign became known for its intensity and theatre. Football was introduced to phrases like "squeaky bum time" and "Fergie-time", with the former even entering the Oxford English Dictionary. There were feuds with rival managers, referees, the media and, at times, his own biggest stars. Icons such as David Beckham and Roy Keane discovered that Ferguson never hesitated to make ruthless calls if he believed the club demanded it.
From Title Drought to Trophy Haul
Ferguson set the tone from day one, insisting on new levels of discipline and professionalism. When he arrived, United had not won the league since the 1960s, when Best and Charlton lit up Old Trafford. By the time he retired in 2013, the honours list included 13 Premier League titles, five FA Cups, four League Cups, and Champions League triumphs over Bayern Munich and Chelsea.
The silverware also included 10 Charity Shields, a European Cup Winners' Cup, European Super Cup, FIFA Club World Cup and Intercontinental Cup, plus countless individual accolades, making it a one-man, one-club record that may never be matched.
Relive the Ferguson Years
The special edition captures the milestones, legends and moments that defined a golden era at Old Trafford. It is available to purchase from participating retailers and supermarkets, with postage and packing charges applying.
