Former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Sandro has made a bold claim, insisting that Harry Redknapp should have been the man to succeed the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United back in 2013.
A Decade of Turbulence at Old Trafford
The Brazilian's comments highlight the ongoing narrative of United's struggles since Ferguson's retirement. The Scot's departure after securing the Premier League title in 2013 marked the end of an era, ushering in a period of significant instability for the club.
In the twelve and a half years since, Manchester United have lifted just five major trophies: two FA Cups, two League Cups, and the Europa League. The recent appointment of Rubén Amorim is the club's sixth permanent managerial hire following Ferguson, not including caretakers.
Redknapp's Management Style: The Perfect Fit?
Speaking to Boyle Sports, Sandro, who played under Redknapp at both Spurs and QPR, was unequivocal in his support. He argued that Redknapp possessed the ideal managerial qualities to have steered United through the transition.
"One hundred percent, Redknapp could have solved Manchester United's problems after Ferguson left," Sandro stated. He pointed to similarities between the two iconic managers, noting their commanding presence and ability to connect with players.
"They both managed the team in the same way. A big image, a big impact in the dressing room, and that is something you need," he explained. "When you speak, the players listen. Everyone respected Harry, but you could also joke with him and he made everyone laugh."
Tactical Acumen and Big Decisions
Sandro also praised Redknapp's tactical intelligence and man-management, recalling a specific half-time substitution that left a lasting impression. "In Brazil, that is a disrespect to a player, to take him off at half-time, but Harry was not afraid," Sandro said.
"He told the lads: 'We are not having a good game, I'm sorry but I am changing the team and I have to change it. I do it for the team.' He was a manager who made the big decisions. And we won that game."
He believed Redknapp's attacking philosophy would have suited United. "His fans want to play and attack. Harry would play like that with a good tactic of four at the back. At Tottenham we were always balanced. Teams need to have that balance. Attack and defend. We were one team. Not two teams."
The Road Not Taken
When Ferguson retired, the United board chose David Moyes to fill the enormous void. Moyes was dismissed in April 2014 with the club seventh in the table, succeeded by Louis van Gaal.
At that time, Redknapp was in charge of Queens Park Rangers. The now 78-year-old manager was unable to prevent QPR's relegation that season, though he did secure promotion back to the Premier League the following year before departing with the club 19th upon their return.
Since a brief stint managing the Jordan national team in 2016 and a 13-game spell at Birmingham City in 2017, Redknapp has not returned to professional management. Sandro's interview, however, poses a fascinating 'what if' for one of English football's biggest clubs.
