Patrice Evra has admitted that it is “always tough” to talk about the current state of Manchester United since Sir Alex Ferguson bowed out of Old Trafford.
Sir Alex Ferguson called it time on his legendary managerial career in 2013 after he secured Manchester United’s last Premier League title in the 2012-13 season.
Patrice Evra was part of the last United team to lift the Premier League trophy, with the Frenchman enjoying incredible success under former manager Ferguson.
During his time at Old Trafford, Evra captured five Premier League titles, a Champions League trophy and three League Cups with United.
Ferguson, who is considered one of the best managers of all time, ushered in a period of dominance for United over English football during his time at the club.
The 82-year-old legendary Scotsman led United to all 13 of their Premier League titles and was the first manager to lead an English side to a continental treble.
Evra on Man Utd and ‘blame’ remarks
Manchester United have struggled to climb back to the top of English football in the aftermath of Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement from football.
The Red Devils’ highest league position since Ferguson’s departure has been second, which came under ex-United managers Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Patrice Evra claimed that he ‘blames’ himself and Ferguson for the “chaos” that ensued at the Premier League club after their exits.
The 43-year-old United legend, who made his Old Trafford departure in 2014, insisted that they left “too early” and the players don’t have “any example” to follow.
“It’s always tough to talk about United right now because back in the day we used to play for the fans, for the badge, for the history,” he said.
Evra added: “I blame myself, I blame Sir Alex Ferguson.
“When we left, we left too early and it’s difficult for the players because they don’t have any example.
“I’m not inside, I don’t know what the problem is. The manager Ten Hag is trying to do his best – it’s not good enough.
“But it’s not just about this season, it’s since we won the last league in 2013, the club has been like in a chaos.”
Evra on Man Utd and rivals
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who became United co-owner in 2023, has previously outlined his desire to knock Manchester City and Liverpool “off their perch” in football.
Evra admitted that United now face an uphill battle to restore their prestige after they have been “overtaken” by the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal.
“I’m a positive man, but it’s tough,” he said.
“Our rivals are getting better than us, play a better style of football. The future is not bright. It’s a tough moment.
“Liverpool waited 30 years to win the Premier League again, now it’s been 11 years [since United’s last title]. I don’t want to wait that long.
“No matter what, I will be a United fan forever, but it’s quite tough to watch United play.”
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