Who has been Manchester United's best manager? Sky Sports is launching a vote to find out.
Some might say it is a one-horse race but Sky Sports wants to find a definitive answer. Who has been the greatest manager in Manchester United's history? Sir Alex Ferguson may be the favourite but do not forget Sir Matt Busby, Tommy Docherty and Ernest Mangnall. Here, Sky Sports gives you the chance to have your say and vote to establish United's best manager. Get involved and we will announce the winner on 12th August.
Sir Alex Ferguson (1986-2013)
Ferguson retired this summer after an incredible 26-and-a-half years and 38 trophies as Manchester United manager. He took over a side that had struggled during the 1980s and turned them into the dominant force in English football. Thirteen league titles and two UEFA Champions League wins, not to mention five FA Cup triumphs, put the Scot amongst the greatest managers of all time. The unprecedented Treble his United claimed in 1999 was arguably the highlight of a spell that enjoyed so many memorable moments.
Sir Matt Busby (1945-1969 & 1970-1971)
As a former Manchester City and Liverpool player, Busby was perhaps a surprising choice when he became the United manager in 1945. When he left 25 years later there was no doubt he was the right choice. He guided the club to five championship wins, two FA Cups and the 1968 European Cup. He oversaw the era of the Busby Babes, including the likes of Duncan Edwards and Sir Bobby Charlton, before rebuilding the side in the aftermath of the Munich Air Disaster that killed 23 people, including eight United players. The European Cup victory over Benfica in the 1968 final was Busby's last major triumph and he retired at the end of the following season.
Ernest Mangnall (1903-1912)
He was in charge of Manchester United between 1903 and 1912, under the title of secretary. He led United to promotion in his third season at the helm and in just their first campaign in the top division, Mangnall masterminded their maiden league championship win. The FA Cup followed in 1909 before a second league championship arrived in his penultimate season, 1911, before he moved to rivals Manchester City in 1912.
Tommy Docherty (1972-1977)
In five years as Old Trafford boss, Docherty was unable to prevent the club from being relegated, just six years on from their European Cup success, but brought them back up as champions the next year. They finished an impressive third in their first season back in the big time and also reached the FA Cup final, only to lose to Southampton. They went one better in 1977, though, denying Liverpool a Treble by beating them 2-1 at Wembley.
Who do you think has been the greatest manager in Manchester United's history? Have your say via the feedback form below and vote in our poll. Voting closes on 9th August
