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#3 Memphis Depay
Manchester United have had some legendary players who have donned the no. 7 jersey. Ever since Cristiano Ronaldo left in 2009, United have struggled to find an appropriate replacement. Memphis Depay was signed in 2015 by the Red Devils, hoping that he would break the no.7 curse.
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The Dutch forward attracted a lot of attention before joining United by giving some stellar performances with PSV Eindhoven. His fine dribbling, quick foot movement, and amazing goal-scoring abilities were a delight to watch. Somehow, the right-footed winger couldn't find the same form at Manchester United.
He struggled to have an impact and was consistently criticized for his performances. He left for Lyon after two seasons and regained his form. He's currently at Barcelona, leading the Catalan attack. Manchester United would have benefited from his dynamism and creative abilities if they had not sold him in 2017.
#2 Gerard Pique
Gerard Pique was once part of Manchester United's youth academy. He made his senior debut for United in 2004. The tall centre-back has always been a solid figure at the back.
With the presence of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic as centre-backs in the Manchester United lineup, it looked almost impossible for Pique to get regular game-time. The Spaniard was able to make only 12 Premier League appearances during his time at Old Trafford. He won the league and UEFA Champions League with them but due to an uncertain future, decided to move to Barcelona in 2008.
He could have been a vital player for the Red Devils, especially considering that Manchester United needed a world-class defender post the departure of Ferdinand and Vidic. Post his departure from United, Pique has earned many accolades with Barcelona over the years.
#1 Jaap Stam
Jaap Stam was one of the most aggressive defenders of his time. With his quick pace and smart defending, the Dutchman was feared by many due to his intimidating approach.
He was signed by Manchester United in 1998 from PSV Eindhoven. He became the most expensive defender back then. Having won three Premier League titles, one FA Cup and the UEFA Champions League once with the Red Devils, he was touted to stay with them for a very long duration.
In 2001, citing his achilles injury, then Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson and his staff felt that Stam wasn't the same post his injury. They felt it was best to sell the Dutch defender considering the situation. Turns out it was misjudged and United lost an amazing centre-back in the former PSV man. Stam then played for Lazio, Milan and Ajax.
