Manchester United's relationship with the Class of 92, a group of six players who made up the core of Sir Alex Ferguson's dominant team in the late 1990s and early 2000s, is complicated and multifaceted. While the club values their contributions to its success and often seeks their opinions on matters, there are also tensions and misunderstandings.
The Class of 92, comprising Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, David Beckham, Gary Neville, Phil Neville, and Nicky Butt, have all been involved in various capacities with Manchester United since retiring as players. They have worked as coaches, assistants, and even interim managers, and some have been vocal critics of the club's direction.
Nicky Butt, who has been a key figure in the Class of 92's efforts to bring young players through the academy, has had a particularly fraught relationship with the club over issues related to youth development. In one instance, he was accused by United officials of being out of touch with the reality of the game and not understanding the need to win.
Despite these tensions, Butt remains deeply committed to Manchester United and has been involved in various charitable initiatives on behalf of the club. He recently turned out for a group of underprivileged children at Old Trafford, highlighting his dedication to the club's values.
The Club of 92 also owns Hotel Football, a hotel located near Old Trafford Stadium that serves as a hub for their business ventures. However, United tried to block the construction of the hotel in the past, leading to some tension between the parties.
Gary Neville, who has been critical of certain aspects of Manchester United's management, has stated that he believes the club values his opinions and trusts him to provide constructive feedback. He has also emphasized the importance of the Class of 92 being involved in the club's success and has expressed frustration with those who suggest they are not welcome at Old Trafford.
In an interview with BBC Sport, Neville acknowledged that there may have been some issues between the Club of 92 and United in the past but stated that these had since been resolved. He believes that the group shares a common goal of seeing Manchester United succeed and is committed to supporting the club's efforts.
While the relationship between Manchester United and the Class of 92 is complex, it is clear that both parties value their connection and seek to work together to achieve success.
The Class of 92, comprising Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, David Beckham, Gary Neville, Phil Neville, and Nicky Butt, have all been involved in various capacities with Manchester United since retiring as players. They have worked as coaches, assistants, and even interim managers, and some have been vocal critics of the club's direction.
Nicky Butt, who has been a key figure in the Class of 92's efforts to bring young players through the academy, has had a particularly fraught relationship with the club over issues related to youth development. In one instance, he was accused by United officials of being out of touch with the reality of the game and not understanding the need to win.
Despite these tensions, Butt remains deeply committed to Manchester United and has been involved in various charitable initiatives on behalf of the club. He recently turned out for a group of underprivileged children at Old Trafford, highlighting his dedication to the club's values.
The Club of 92 also owns Hotel Football, a hotel located near Old Trafford Stadium that serves as a hub for their business ventures. However, United tried to block the construction of the hotel in the past, leading to some tension between the parties.
Gary Neville, who has been critical of certain aspects of Manchester United's management, has stated that he believes the club values his opinions and trusts him to provide constructive feedback. He has also emphasized the importance of the Class of 92 being involved in the club's success and has expressed frustration with those who suggest they are not welcome at Old Trafford.
In an interview with BBC Sport, Neville acknowledged that there may have been some issues between the Club of 92 and United in the past but stated that these had since been resolved. He believes that the group shares a common goal of seeing Manchester United succeed and is committed to supporting the club's efforts.
While the relationship between Manchester United and the Class of 92 is complex, it is clear that both parties value their connection and seek to work together to achieve success.