Since the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson departed Old Trafford in 2013, Manchester United has embarked on a challenging quest to reclaim its former glory. Over the thirteen years that followed, the British giants have appointed a total of ten managers, encompassing both full-time and interim appointments, in their search for a consistent leader.
The managerial carousel began with David Moyes, who was the first to step into Ferguson’s formidable shoes. His tenure was followed by a series of leaders including Ryan Giggs (interim), Louis van Gaal (full-time), Jose Mourinho (full-time), Ole Gunnar Solskjær (full-time), Michael Carrick (interim), Ralf Rangnick (interim), Erik ten Hag (full-time), Ruud van Nistelrooy (interim), and most recently, Ruben Amorim, who concluded his tenure as a full-time manager on January 5, 2026, after 14 months at the helm.
Following Amorim’s departure, former Manchester United player and Under-18 coach Darren Fletcher has temporarily taken charge of the senior team, while the club’s board considers a permanent replacement for the Portuguese manager.
An analysis of the leadership achievements among these ten managers since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure reveals distinct performances. Portuguese manager Jose Mourinho holds the distinction of having the most successful record, followed closely by Norwegian manager Ole Gunnar Solskjær. Here’s a detailed look at the top-performing managers:
1. **Jose Mourinho (May 27, 2016 – December 18, 2018):** Mourinho managed Manchester United for 144 games, securing 84 wins, 32 draws, and 28 losses. During his tenure, he notably led the club to victory in the UEFA Europa League, the League Cup, and the Community Shield.
2. **Ole Gunnar Solskjær (December 19, 2018 – November 21, 2021):** Solskjær oversaw 168 matches, achieving 91 wins, 37 draws, and 40 losses. Despite his strong win record, he did not secure any major trophies during his time as manager.
3. **Erik ten Hag (May 23, 2022 – October 28, 2024):** Ten Hag led the team for 128 games, recording 70 wins, 23 draws, and 35 losses. His period included winning two significant trophies: the FA Cup and the League Cup.
4. **David Moyes (July 1, 2013 – April 22, 2014):** Moyes managed 51 games for the Red Devils, with a record of 27 wins, 9 draws, and 15 losses. He secured the Community Shield once during his brief spell.
5. **Louis van Gaal (July 16, 2014 – May 23, 2016):** Van Gaal managed 103 games, achieving 54 wins, 25 draws, and 24 losses. He successfully guided the team to an FA Cup triumph.
6. **Ruben Amorim (November 10, 2024 – January 5, 2026):** Amorim’s tenure spanned 63 games, resulting in 25 wins, 15 draws, and 23 losses.
The remaining managers, Ryan Giggs, Michael Carrick, Ralf Rangnick, and Ruud van Nistelrooy, served in temporary capacities, leading the team for a limited number of games.
