10 Man Utd Legends Who Played For Southampton

The history of football is filled with intriguing connections and transfers, and one such story involves the link between Manchester United and Southampton. Over the years, several players have donned the red of United after making their mark at Southampton, leaving a lasting legacy at both clubs. Let's delve into the careers of these 10 Manchester United legends who started their English football journey at Southampton.

The Southampton-to-United Pipeline

Southampton, a club with a rich history and a reputation for developing talented young players, has served as a launchpad for numerous footballing stars. Among them, a significant number have gone on to become integral parts of Manchester United’s illustrious history. These players not only left their mark on the Premier League but also became iconic figures in the theater of dreams at Old Trafford.

1. Alan Shearer

Starting our list is the legendary Alan Shearer, who began his professional career with Southampton in 1988. The young striker made an immediate impact, scoring 13 goals in his debut season. His goal-scoring prowess caught the eye of Manchester United, who signed him in 1992. Although his time at United was brief due to a serious knee injury, Shearer’s impact was undeniable. In his 64 appearances for United, he scored 34 goals, including a memorable hat-trick against Ipswich Town. Despite his short tenure, Shearer’s contribution to United’s success, including the 1993 FA Cup victory, is immeasurable.

Alan Shearer’s Southampton and United Statistics

Here’s a breakdown of Shearer’s impressive numbers during his time at Southampton and Manchester United:

2. Matt Le Tissier

Matt Le Tissier, a true Southampton legend, spent his entire career with the Saints before a brief loan spell at United in 2002. Known for his extraordinary skill and eye for goal, Le Tissier was a fan favorite at both clubs. During his loan, he made 7 appearances for United, showcasing his talent on the biggest stage. Although he didn’t score for United, his impact was felt, and he remains a beloved figure in both Southampton and Manchester.

Matt Le Tissier’s Southampton and United Statistics

3. Peter Schmeichel

Peter Schmeichel, widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time, started his English football journey with Southampton in 1987. His towering presence and exceptional shot-stopping abilities quickly earned him a move to Manchester United in 1991. At United, Schmeichel became an integral part of the club’s success, winning numerous trophies, including five Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League. His iconic saves and leadership from the back made him a fan favorite and a true United legend.

Peter Schmeichel’s Southampton and United Statistics

4. Teddy Sheringham

Teddy Sheringham, a prolific striker, began his career with Southampton in 1982. He quickly established himself as a goal-scoring sensation, netting 44 times in 146 appearances for the Saints. His talents caught the attention of Manchester United, and he joined the Red Devils in 1997. Sheringham’s impact at United was immense, as he became a key member of the famous treble-winning team in 1999. He scored crucial goals, including the equalizer in the Champions League final, solidifying his place in United’s history.

Teddy Sheringham’s Southampton and United Statistics

5. Wayne Rooney

Wayne Rooney, England’s all-time top goalscorer, began his professional career with Everton. However, his journey to Manchester United took an interesting twist when he spent a brief loan spell with Southampton in 2002. During his time with the Saints, Rooney made just 2 appearances, but his talent was undeniable. He returned to Everton before making a permanent move to United in 2004. Rooney’s United career was nothing short of legendary, as he became the club’s all-time top goalscorer and a key figure in their Premier League dominance.

Wayne Rooney’s Southampton and United Statistics

6. Luke Shaw

Luke Shaw, a talented left-back, started his career with Southampton’s youth academy. He made his senior debut in 2012 and quickly established himself as a promising defender. Manchester United took notice, and Shaw joined the club in 2014. Despite some early challenges, Shaw has become a key member of United’s defense, known for his pace, crossing ability, and attacking prowess. His commitment and improvement have made him a fan favorite and a vital part of United’s future.

Luke Shaw’s Southampton and United Statistics

7. Michael Obafemi

Michael Obafemi, a young striker, joined Southampton’s academy in 2016 and made his senior debut in 2017. His pace, strength, and finishing ability caught the eye of Manchester United, who were reportedly interested in signing him. Although a move didn’t materialize, Obafemi’s potential and talent are undeniable, and he continues to develop at Southampton.

Michael Obafemi’s Southampton Statistics

8. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, a versatile midfielder, began his career with Southampton in 2010. He made his senior debut in 2011 and quickly became a fan favorite with his pace and dribbling skills. Manchester United were reportedly interested in signing him, but he joined Arsenal instead. Oxlade-Chamberlain’s talent and versatility made him a key player for Arsenal before his move to Liverpool in 2017.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s Southampton Statistics

9. Morgan Schneiderlin

Morgan Schneiderlin, a defensive midfielder, started his career with Southampton in 2008. He made his senior debut in 2010 and became a key player for the Saints. Manchester United recognized his talent and signed him in 2015. Although his United career was relatively short, Schneiderlin’s work rate and passing ability made him a valuable squad player.

Morgan Schneiderlin’s Southampton and United Statistics

10. Fraser Forster

Fraser Forster, a towering goalkeeper, began his career with Celtic before joining Southampton in 2014. He quickly established himself as a reliable shot-stopper and was linked with a move to Manchester United in 2015. Although the transfer didn’t materialize, Forster’s performances for Southampton and his consistent goalkeeping abilities have made him a respected figure in English football.

Fraser Forster’s Southampton Statistics

Conclusion

The connection between Southampton and Manchester United has resulted in some of the most memorable transfers in English football. These 10 players, each with their unique talents and contributions, have become legends at both clubs. Their journeys from Southampton to United serve as a testament to the importance of developing young talent and the impact it can have on the beautiful game.