Every Irish player ever to play for Manchester United
Red Devils From Emerald Isle
Manchester United's history is intertwined with the talent of Ireland. From legendary names to academy prospects, the club has long drawn upon the island nation's pool of footballing prowess. With Jonny Evans recently retired, a new generation of Irish players aims to carry on the legacy.
The Legends: Top 20 Appearances for United
Tony Dunne: Over 500 appearances cemented Dunne's place as a cornerstone of Matt Busby's European conquering side in 1968. The left-back was known for his speed, discipline, and reliability.
Denis Irwin: A consistent performer capable of playing both full-back positions and even taking penalties with precision, Irwin helped United secure numerous titles, including the Champions League in 1999.
Roy Keane: The Cork native's inspirational leadership guided United to countless trophies throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. His presence on the pitch was undeniable, famously dragging his team to victory against Juventus in the 1999 Champions League semi-final.
George Best: Belfast's finest, Best is considered one of the greatest players ever to grace the game. His skillful dribbling and dazzling displays captivated audiences across the globe, culminating in a European Cup triumph in 1968 with a goal in the final against Benfica.
Sammy McIlroy: Joining United at the tail end of the Busby era, McIlroy always gave his best despite facing less frequent success. He proved his versatility by playing numerous positions throughout his career.
John O'Shea: A true utility player capable of excelling in various positions, O'Shea even donned the goalkeeper jersey for a few minutes against Tottenham Hotspur when Edwin van der Sar was injured. His contributions often came in crucial moments, like his last-minute winner at Anfield in 2007.
Shay Brennan: Another Busby Babe fullback, Brennan contributed significantly to United's European Cup success and their consistent dominance in England.
Johnny Carey: Leading United just after World War II through challenging times, Carey is remembered for his leadership qualities and unique distinction of representing both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland simultaneously during the late 1940s.
Kevin Moran: A no-nonsense center back who anchored a transitioning United side in the 1980s to two FA Cup victories. Moran became the first player ever sent off in an FA Cup final in 1985, but his team still emerged victorious thanks to another Irishman's heroics.
Frank Stapleton: A distinguished center forward who represented both United and Arsenal during his career, Stapleton was renowned for his exceptional heading abilities throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
Norman Whiteside: Belfast-born magician Whiteside dazzled fans with his skill and goal-scoring prowess. He holds the record as the youngest player to ever appear in a World Cup, representing Northern Ireland in 1982. He also saved Moran's blushes with a stunning winner against Everton at Wembley in 1985.
Jimmy Nicholl: A product of United's academy system, Nicholl played a vital role in the club's 1977 FA Cup final triumph. Today, he serves as an assistant manager for the Northern Ireland national team.
Harry Gregg: One of the greatest goalkeepers in United's history, Gregg was renowned for his commanding presence and heroic actions during the Munich air disaster where he saved the lives of several passengers on board.
Jonny Evans: A product of the United academy, Evans served as a reliable backup to legendary defenders Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic during one of the club's most successful eras. He left in 2015 but returned for two seasons at the end of his career, securing an FA Cup victory in 2024.
Paul McGrath: A key figure in United's 1980s team, McGrath was a defender known for his exceptional reading of the game and composed demeanor even during high-pressure situations.
Noel Cantwell: An Irish captain who led United to victory in the 1963 FA Cup and played a crucial role in winning the league titles in 1963 and 1967. Interestingly, Cantwell also represented Ireland in cricket five times.
Gerry Daly: While Daly's United career began with relegation in his first season, he helped the team secure an immediate promotion back to the top division.
Mal Donaghy: A versatile defender who could play at full-back or in central defense, Donaghy enjoyed success under Sir Alex Ferguson, winning the European Cup Winners' Cup and the Super Cup in 1991.
Jackie Blanchflower: A youth academy product who went on to win a league title with United. Unfortunately, injuries sustained during the Munich air disaster in 1958 forced him into early retirement.
Johnny Giles: Another Irish graduate of United's academy system, Giles played for the club until 1963. The Dubliner was a creative midfielder known for his vision and goal-scoring ability.