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Old Trafford has been known to be a breeding ground for football superstars but several players have also hit great strides away from it.
Manchester United is no doubt one of the most storied football clubs in the world.
The club has been a breeding ground for talent over the years, having recorded massive success in English football over decades.
While some players become club legends, others find success in new endeavors after bidding farewell to Old Trafford.
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In this article, we explore the thriving post-United careers of seven players who have seamlessly transitioned to new challenges, showcasing their resilience and versatility beyond the iconic red jersey.
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5 ex-Man United players who have excelled away from Old Trafford
1. Cristiano Ronaldo
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The name Cristiano Ronaldo is synonymous with football greatness.
While Ronaldo's legacy at Manchester United is etched in history, his journey beyond Old Trafford has been equally remarkable.
From successful stints at Real Madrid and Juventus to his sensational return to Manchester United, Ronaldo's goal-scoring prowess and leadership have made him a global icon.
Now plying his trade for Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr, Ronaldo is the highest-paid footballer in the world.
He has already managed to score a 50 goals in 2023, a number that places him in contention for the Golden shoe.
2. Romelu Lukaku
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In 2017, under the management of Jose Mourinho, Manchester United secured the services of Romelu Lukaku for an initial investment of £75 million.
The Belgian striker showcased his goal-scoring prowess in his inaugural season, netting an impressive 27 goals across all competitions.
However, Lukaku's form experienced a downturn, leading to his eventual transfer to Inter Milan.
Since his departure from Manchester United, Lukaku's career has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows.
His time at Inter Milan was marked by goal-scoring greatness, contributing significantly to the team's success.
A subsequent return to Chelsea, however, proved to be a challenging chapter.
Despite the setbacks, Lukaku found himself reunited with former mentor Jose Mourinho at AS Roma.
In his current stint with Roma, Lukaku has wasted no time in making an impact, displaying his goal-scoring prowess with 12 goals in just 19 matches this year.
3. Angel Di Maria
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Having lifted the World Cup with Argentina in December 2022, Di Maria turned down potentially lucrative moves to Saudi Arabia or the MLS, and instead chose the path of sentimentalism with a heartfelt return to Benfica.
His time in Portugal has been nothing short of idyllic, highlighted by extraordinary moments like his stunning Olimpico against Salzburg in the Champions League.
The former Real Madrid and PSG winger will go down in history as one of the best players in his position.
4. Fred
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In the aftermath of his departure from Manchester United last summer, Fred embarked on a new chapter with Fenerbahce, gracing the pitch in 18 matches.
Remarkably, the Brazilian midfielder emerged victorious in each of these encounters, underscoring an impressive record.
5. Daley Blind
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Having previously played under Louis van Gaal at international level for the Netherlands, Daley Blind reunited with the seasoned manager when he joined Manchester United in 2014.
During his time at Old Trafford, the versatile defender secured notable triumphs, clinching the FA Cup, League Cup, and Europa League.
However, as managerial changes occurred, Blind gradually found himself lower down the pecking order under Jose Mourinho.
Subsequently, he embarked on journeys with Ajax and Bayern Munich.
Currently plying his trade with Girona, Blind appears to be relishing a positive phase in his career.
Girona is amid a spectacular season, emerging as formidable competitors against traditional powerhouses Real Madrid and Barcelona in La Liga.
In the ongoing La Liga campaign, Blind has featured prominently, making 18 appearances.
The Dutch defender is poised to play a crucial part in the team's pursuit of success, contributing to what could be a miraculous season for Girona.
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22:17 - 20.12.2023
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