- Manchester United had their worst season in Premier League history last year
- But two United stars stood out above the rest and Ferguson was impressed.
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Sir Alex Ferguson has praised two Manchester United youngsters, saying they both represent “the heart and soul” of the club.
Since Ferguson left the club 11 years ago, six managers have taken over at United, excluding caretaker managers, with varying degrees of success.
Under current manager Erik ten Hag, the Red Devils have won two trophies, including an FA Cup last season.
However, the Dutchman could only guide them to eighth place in the Premier League last season, their worst result in the competition’s history.
But despite such a disappointing campaign, Ten Hag is credited with bringing young stars Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho into the first team, both of whom shone brightly last season.
Sir Alex Ferguson left Manchester United 11 years ago, but remains a global ambassador for the club.
Ferguson has singled out Kobbie Mainoo (left) and Alejandro Garnacho (right) as the foundation of United’s success
Mainoo, 19, only made his league debut in November 2023 but has become a stalwart in the centre of United’s midfield.
Garnacho, meanwhile, has built on his previous successes from the previous season, scoring 10 goals and providing five assists in all competitions in 2023-24.
And when speaking to TikToker Jamal Niaz about Mainoo and Garnacho, Ferguson only had nice things to say about them.
“It’s the foundation, isn’t it?” said Ferguson. “It’s the heart and soul of what Manchester United has been since the days of Sir Matt Busby, who started the whole process of trusting young players to play.
‘They are young. What they are showing at the moment is the calmness and confidence to play in the first team and not be intimidated by it.
“In a way, it shows the kind of courage they have. It’s a characteristic of human beings: some have the will to be brave at a young age.”
The former United legend became renowned for his faith in youngsters during his time at Old Trafford, bringing in the likes of David Beckham, Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs and Gary Neville during his 27-year tenure.
Ferguson brought in several superstars including David Beckham (centre) during his 27-year tenure at the club.
All four were instrumental in his coaching success during the 1990s and early 2000s and now Mainoo and Garnacho could become the same for Ten Hag.
Both were coming off impressive individual seasons and paid dividends on the international stage. Mainoo reached the Euro 2024 final with England, while Garnacho reigned supreme at the Copa America with Argentina.
The pair are now recharging their batteries ahead of another season under their Dutch manager at Old Trafford.
