Sir Alex Ferguson had felt that two Manchester United legends would be able to transition from the pitch to the dugout by becoming top-class football managers.
That is according to Patrice Evra, who previously opened up about Sir Alex Ferguson’s prediction for two former Manchester United players at Old Trafford.
Ferguson, who is regarded as one of the best managers of all time, stepped down from his role as United manager after the Red Devils’ last Premier League title win.
United In Focus has now taken a deeper look at the two candidates whom Patrice Evra namechecked around Ferguson’s admission over their managerial-esque qualities.
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1. Ryan Giggs
Ryan Giggs did transition into the world of coaching — and later management — after the 52-year-old Welshman’s legendary playing spell ended at Old Trafford in 2014.
The Manchester United legend served as player-manager under David Moyes and briefly took charge as interim boss after Sir Alex Ferguson’s successor was sacked.
Giggs built on his experience by remaining in the Old Trafford dugout, but the former Wales international became Louis van Gaal’s right-hand man at the club.
Louis van Gaal’s sacking in 2016 meant that former Man Utd assistant manager Giggs left the Premier League side and made his first big step into management.
Giggs was appointed Wales manager in 2018 and United’s all-time leading appearance-maker had shown promise before his entire career was derailed in 2022.
The United icon stepped down ahead of a trial for allegations of controlling behaviour and assault, which Giggs was cleared of any wrongdoing in 2023.
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2. Patrice Evra
The same man who made the claim about Ferguson’s prediction for two Man Utd legends was also tipped to enter the world of management alongside Ryan Giggs.
Patrice Evra did step into the world of coaching after the former United and France defender completed his UEFA ‘A’ and ‘B’ coaching licences in 2021.
The 45-year-old Frenchman gained coaching experience by working with the United youth academy, including with the Red Devils’ Under-18s and Under-23s.
Evra, unlike ex-Man Utd teammate Giggs, did not enter the world of management or continue to pursue an active role in coaching after gaining his licences.
“[Sir Alex Ferguson told me] Patrice, two people are going to be great managers in this team,” Evra told The Sunday Times, as per the Irish Mirror in 2015.
“You and Ryan Giggs.
“You understand football, you know how to talk to people, you’ve got the leadership.
“Forget tactics and everything; you know how to pass on your passion. You can easily pass on your inspiration, your leadership. Trust me – do your badges.”
Evra has appeared on punditry and been an online media personality — especially for his antics on social media — after he retired from football in 2018.
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