Manchester United

Founded in 1878 as Newton Heath LYR Football Club, Manchester United began life as a team formed by workers from the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway. Financial difficulties almost brought the club to an end before a change of ownership and the adoption of the Manchester United name in 1902 marked a new beginning. United moved to Old Trafford in 1910 and subsequently became one of the most celebrated clubs in English football, enjoying defining periods of success under figures including Sir Matt Busby and Sir Alex Ferguson. Their red shirts, Old Trafford home and famous Red Devil identity have since become recognised throughout world football.

5 facts you might not know

United began as a railway team
Newton Heath LYR were formed by workers from the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway's carriage and wagon department.
Manchester United almost had a different name
When the club was reorganised in 1902, Manchester Central and Manchester Celtic were reportedly considered before Manchester United was chosen.
Old Trafford survived wartime bombing
German air raids badly damaged the stadium during the Second World War, forcing United to play home matches at Manchester City's Maine Road while Old Trafford was rebuilt.
The Red Devil came from rugby league
Matt Busby adopted the "Red Devils" nickname after hearing it used for Salford's successful rugby league team, helping create an identity that eventually appeared on United's crest.
United once played in blue and white stripes
Before red became firmly established as the club's defining colour, Newton Heath wore several different combinations, including distinctive blue-and-white striped shirts during the 1890s.