MANCHESTER UNITED is one of the biggest entities in world sport.
Initially founded in 1878 as Newton Heath LYR FC, the historic club changed it’s name in 1902 to formally become the recognisable brand we all now know.
The nickname ‘United’ was born and it instantly became synonymous with the northern side. That was until legendary manager Sir Matt Busby took over.
In the 1950’s, Man Utd started to be referred to as the ‘Busby Babes’ in reference to the club’s beloved boss and young squad. However, in light of the Munich air disaster of 1958 – which killed 23 people, eight of whom were players – Busby was keen to rebuild the club with a new identity.
The United icon was inspired by local rugby club Salford – popularly known as the ‘Red Devils’ – after the team played a match at Old Trafford nine months after the tragic plane crash. He then decided to adopt the name for Man Utd as he liked the intimidating nature of it.
Within a few months, the nickname ‘Busby Babes’ was scrapped and replaced by the ‘Red Devils’. And in 1973, the club badge was changed to feature the now-iconic image of a Red Devil holding a trident.
Man Utd have since won 13 League titles, nine FA Cups and two Champions League titles. The Red Devils’ most recent accolade came in the form of the Carabao Cup in February.
