Analysing the Beginning of Each Manchester United Manager in the EPL

Manchester United’s managerial transitions in the Premier League era have been marked by varied beginnings, each setting a distinct tone for the ensuing tenure. Analyzing the first ten league games under each manager provides insight into their initial impact and the challenges they faced.

Sir Alex Ferguson (November 1986–May2013)

Although Ferguson’s appointment predates the Premier League’s inception in 1992, his early years are noteworthy. He joined United in November 1986, and by the Premier League’s start, he had already secured an FA Cup in 1990 and the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1991.

The inaugural Premier League season (1992–93) saw United register a poor first three games, with two defeats and a loss, before turning things around to win five in a row. United’s first 10 EPL games under Ferguson brought five wins, three draws and two losses, but a turnaround in form during that winter and spring helped them clinch their first league title in 26 years, marking the beginning of an era of dominance.

David Moyes (July 2013–April 2014)

Handpicked by Ferguson as his successor, Moyes began his tenure with a 4-1 victory over Swansea City. However, the subsequent nine league games yielded mixed results, with United securing four wins, two draws, and three losses. This inconsistency set a precarious foundation, leading to his dismissal before completing a full season.

Ryan Giggs (Interim, April–May 2014)

After the sacking of David Moyes it was his player-assistant manager and club legend Ryan Giggs who took the reins for the last four games of the season. His results were a mixed bag, with two wins, one draw and one defeat.

He also stayed on as assistant manager to United’s next appointment, Louis van Gaal.

Louis van Gaal (July 2014–May 2016)

The Dutchman’s debut was a 2-1 home defeat to Swansea City. His first ten league games resulted in three wins, four draws, and three losses. Despite this uneven start, Van Gaal guided Manchester United to a fourth-place finish in his first season and secured the FA Cup in his second, though he was dismissed shortly after the cup triumph.

José Mourinho (May 2016–December 2018)

Mourinho’s league debut featured a 3-1 win against Bournemouth. The initial ten games under his leadership produced six wins, two draws, and two losses. His first season was fruitful, yielding the Community Shield, EFL Cup, and Europa League.

However, a lack of league success led to his departure in December 2018.

Ole Gunnar Solskjær (December 2018–November 2021)

Initially appointed as caretaker, Solskjær’s first league game resulted in a 5-1 victory over Cardiff City. He achieved an impressive run in his first ten league games, securing eight wins and two draws, marking the best start for a United manager in the Premier League era. This positive momentum earned him a permanent role, but inconsistent results culminated in his exit in November 2021.

Ralf Rangnick (November 2021–May 2022)

Serving as interim manager, Rangnick began with a 1-0 win over Crystal Palace. His first ten league games comprised five wins, three draws, and two losses. Despite initial tactical adjustments, the team struggled to secure a top-four finish.

Erik ten Hag (June 2022–October 2024)

Ten Hag’s era commenced with a 2-1 home loss to Brighton. The subsequent nine league games included five wins, one draw, and four losses.

Despite leading United to League Cup and FA Cup victories, a poor start to the 2024–25 season led to his dismissal in October 2024.

Ruud van Nistelrooy (Interim, October–November 2024)

The former United striker stepped in as interim manager, debuting with a 1-1 draw against Chelsea. His brief stint included two wins, one draw, and one loss, serving as a bridge to the next permanent appointment.

Rúben Amorim (November 2024–Present)

Amorim’s first league game was a 1-1 draw against Ipswich Town, with United scoring in the second minute but unable to secure a win. His only other Premier League game until today was a 4-0 win over Everton, so his record so far is one win and one draw, with the team scoring five goals. His tenure is in its early stages, with aspirations to restore United’s former glory.

In summary, Manchester United managers have experienced diverse beginnings in the Premier League era. While some initiated with victories, others faced immediate challenges. These starts have often been indicative of the managerial periods that followed, underscoring the significance of a strong debut in setting the trajectory for success at Old Trafford.