Sir Matt Busby
Testimonial August 11th 1991 v Republic of Ireland

Outfield Kit
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Goalkeeper Kit
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Outfield Kit
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Before the game, a side of former United legends drew 3-3 with a team of former City players (including Tony Book, Dennis Tuart, Mike Summerbee and Peter Barnes).

United's side consisted of Alex Stepney, Bill Foulkes, Nobby Stiles, Pat Creand, George Best, David Sadler and Brian Kidd.

 

Matt Busby laid the foundations for the modern club in his time as manager of United.

He took over on October 1st 1945 and, with Jimmy Murphy's help, established United as one of the leading post war sides, winning the FA Cup in 1948 and the League title in 1951/52.

Perhaps his greatest achievements were with the 'Busby Babes', a squad of of young, home produced players that won back to back First Division titles in 1956 and 1957, as well as reaching both the 1957 and 1958 FA Cup finals and the European Cup semi-finals.

United's involvement in European competition owed much to Busby's pioneering philosophy, and by entering the European Cup, he went against the wishes of the Football League. Later, Busby accepted an invitation to compete in the World Club Championship in 1968, despite Jock Stein's advice not be involved.

After the Babes were decimated by the Munich Air Disaster in 1958, Busby built a third great team. United won the FA Cup in 1963, and the League title in 1965 and again in 1967, but the crowning glory was undoubtedly the 1968 European Cup triumph.

Busby's sides were renowned for their attacking football and had an outstanding balance between individual flair and team play. He established the tradition of United's attacking philosophy that all future United managers will be judged upon.

After retiring he served the club briefly as General Manager before accepting a role on the Board. Busby died on January 20th 1994.