Manchester United’s African stars
With goalkeeper Andre Onana set to become the latest African player through the door at Manchester United, we take a look at the history of players from the continent at Old Trafford.
Some were a huge success, others a big letdown, and how Onana goes after replacing David De Gea will be fascinating to watch.
GARY BAILEY
Appearances/goals: 294/0
The goalkeeper was born in Ipswich in England but raised in South Africa, where he held citizenship as his father Roy Bailey coached extensively in the country.
Gary played his early football at Wits University but paid his own way to a trial with Manchester United that resulted in a contract.
He made his debut in November 1978, ironically against Ipswich, and went on to make almost 300 appearances over the next nine years.
He helped United to two FA Cup final wins in 1983 and 1985, and also became a full England international, winning two caps.
As injuries began to bite, he left United in 1987 and returned ‘home’ to South Africa to play for Kaizer Chiefs. He later became a popular analyst on SuperSport.
ERIC BAILLY
Appearances/goals: 113/1
The Ivory Coast centre-back has spent the last seven seasons at United following a move from Villarreal in Spain, but last year was loaned out to Ligue 1 Marseille.
It appears Bailly’s time at Old Trafford is up after he was told not to report for pre-season training ahead of the 2023/24 with the intention that he will be sold.
A solid performer in his first season with the club in 2016/17, he failed to win a regular place after that and has only 113 appearances to show for his time at the club.
The 29-year-old did win the Uefa Europa League with the Red Devils in that maiden season, but that is his only piece of silverware.
BEBE
Appearances/go
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