The Legacy of Sir Alex Ferguson: Unveiling the Best Player-Turned-Manager
The Great Manager's Influence: A Legacy in Question
Sir Alex Ferguson, a legend in the world of football management, leaves behind a rich legacy. But here's where it gets controversial: has his influence truly shaped the next generation of managers? We delve into the careers of his former players to uncover the truth.
13th October 2025
The Mastermind: Sir Alex Ferguson's Impact
Sir Alex Ferguson, an icon revered by many, is often hailed as the greatest manager of all time. His remarkable achievements and accolades, spanning decades at Aberdeen and Manchester United, speak for themselves.
But what about the players he mentored? Some argue that a manager's true legacy lies in their ability to inspire and educate those around them. Take Johan Cruyff's influence on Pep Guardiola, for instance. The Manchester City boss has seen several of his protégés, like Mikel Arteta and Xabi Alonso, flourish in management.
Ferguson's Disciples: Struggling to Match the Master
For Ferguson, the transition from player to manager hasn't been as smooth for his former players. While the Class of 92 formed the backbone of United's success, few have replicated that glory in the dugout.
There are exceptions, of course, and some still have time to prove themselves. Michael Carrick, for one, is tipped for a bright managerial future and is now linked with the Rangers job. Wayne Rooney and Ruud van Nistelrooy, two big names, have also ventured into management, with the latter even boasting honours on his CV.
Mirror Football's writers embarked on a mission to explore the careers of Ferguson's former players, aiming to identify the most successful manager among them.
The Search for Ferguson's Heir: A Tale of Triumphs and Trials
Scott Trotter
None of Ferguson's disciples have truly become management icons. Their careers have been a mix of triumphs and tribulations, with sackings and obscurity often overshadowing their achievements. Laurent Blanc, with his success at PSG and Bordeaux, stands out as the most accomplished for now. But the question remains: who will be remembered as the best?
Michael Carrick, with his steady stint at Middlesbrough, has already earned praise from Cristiano Ronaldo for his potential as a coach. His understated playing career and experience at the highest level, without being a superstar, could be his greatest assets.
The former England star is suited for a higher level of football and is expected to thrive when given the opportunity. Even outside management, he's preparing for the top in a technical observer role with UEFA.
Robin van Persie, another legend, is making waves with Feyenoord and could soon be a strong contender.
Tom Victor
One could argue that the managerial careers of Ferguson's United charges suggest he was more of a player developer than a boss developer. Alternatively, it could be seen as a testament to his unique managerial talents, something he couldn't teach.
Even among the more successful of Ferguson's charges, there's a mix of good and bad. Steve Bruce and Mark Hughes had their moments in the Premier League, but their relative decline makes it hard to argue their case now. Laurent Blanc, too, had other influences to draw from before his time under Ferguson.
Others, like Van Nistelrooy and Heinze, might still make a big impact. Van Nistelrooy's promising start was derailed by his Leicester nightmare, while Heinze is currently succeeding as a No. 2 after an up-and-down career as the main man in the Americas.
My pick goes to Mark Robins, who worked wonders during his second Coventry spell, earning two promotions despite numerous off-field distractions. He even came close to upsetting United in an FA Cup semi-final.
While Fergie's hit rate isn't great, Robins' success is a testament to his old mentor's influence. Indeed, Ferguson himself had to overcome challenging periods before tasting success, including a must-win cup tie where Robins rescued him.
Daniel Orme
The United job is a daunting challenge, and only one of Sir Alex's former stars has dared to take it on: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Despite a tough time at Cardiff City, Solskjaer was a clever appointment by United chiefs in 2018. It instantly won over the fans, and given United's early form under him, it proved to be a wise move.
Remarkably, Solskjaer has managed the most games of any United boss since Ferguson's retirement, a fact often overlooked. While he didn't win a trophy and his tenure ended on a sour note, stabilizing a perpetually struggling ship is no small feat.
Sure, Blanc has the trophies and pedigree. But Solskjaer's ability to make United look relatively competent during his time in charge is arguably his biggest achievement.
Sam Meade
It's easy to downplay Blanc's achievements with PSG, but the manner of his success was impressive. His French adventure may not have gone as planned, but his best managerial feat was undoubtedly winning the title with Bordeaux.
Claiming the Ligue 1 title in 2009 was a remarkable achievement. It was only Bordeaux's sixth league title in their history and their first in a decade. Blanc's managerial prowess was further highlighted the following year when they reached the Champions League quarter-finals, including a historic win over Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena, defeating the German giants twice.
Among Ferguson's homegrown players, Michael Carrick shows all the signs of a manager destined for an impressive career. He had an unbeaten interim stint in Manchester following Solskjaer's departure.
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