The Official Illustrated History of Manchester United: The Full Story and Complete Record 1878-2010

A masterful account of Manchester United’s beginnings and rise to success, this book chronicles the club’s incredible story. When the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Company formed the Newton Heath L and YR Cricket and Football Club in 1878, they had no idea what it was they were starting. Renamed Manchester United in 1902 after financial problems, the new club would soon go on to win the league title and the FA Cup. It was just the beginning of one of the most remarkable and gripping stories in sports. In the bomb-damaged aftermath of World War II, the club recovered under the brilliant guidance of Matt Busby. The loss of the core of the side in the Munich Air Disaster of February 1958 stunned a nation, and fans around the world, but Busby recovered to build a new side around the talents of Best, Law, and Charlton, becoming the first English side to win the European Cup in 1968. More recently, United has dominated English football under manager Sir Alex Ferguson, winning an incredible 11 Premier League titles, including a unique Treble in 1999. The incredible story of the Reds' success and the great stars from Billy Meredith more than 100 years ago to Ferdinand, Giggs, and Rooney today are all featured in this essential volume.