In the summer of 2013, Manchester United was reportedly close to signing two football superstars: Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale. According to former United player Patrice Evra, Sir Alex Ferguson informed him that they were “99 per cent” certain about these transfers. However, Sir Alex’s unexpected retirement shattered those plans.
Impact of Sir Alex Ferguson’s Retirement
Evra shared with The Athletic that just one week before Ferguson’s retirement announcement, he discussed potential signings. Ferguson had indicated that Ronaldo and Bale were potential additions to the squad as part of their preparations for the upcoming season.
Ferguson’s retirement had significant ramifications. It not only impeded the planned transfers but also led to a major overhaul at United, including the departure of chief executive David Gill. The transition saw Ed Woodward stepping in, which resulted in difficulties securing new players.
Potential Achievements with Ronaldo and Bale
If Ronaldo, sold to Real Madrid in 2009 for a record fee, had rejoined Manchester United, it would have altered football’s landscape dramatically. His skills and goal-scoring prowess contributed significantly to Real Madrid’s later successes, including winning the Champions League multiple times between 2014 and 2018.
Bale’s decision to join Real Madrid over Manchester United played a key role too. His contributions to Real Madrid’s triumphs in Europe were substantial. These signings could have revitalized a Manchester United team that, although aging, still had quality players like Wayne Rooney and David de Gea.
The Aftermath of Missed Signings
Manchester United faced a challenging transition following Ferguson’s retirement. The team slipped from champions in the Premier League to seventh place within a year. The lack of timely reinforcements, aside from a last-minute acquisition of Marouane Fellaini, highlighted the inefficiencies in the club’s transfer strategies.
- Ronaldo – Age 28 in 2013, influential in Real Madrid’s European success.
- Bale – Age 24, preferred Real Madrid, impacting his potential at United.
- Wayne Rooney – Frustrated by Ronaldo’s departure, sought more ambition from the club.
- David de Gea – An emerging young talent in goal.
The combination of an aging squad, managerial changes, and a lack of coherent transfer strategies forged a challenging path for Manchester United. Integrating stars like Ronaldo and Bale under an experienced manager might have provided the stability needed for a smoother transition.
