5 amazing facts you probably wouldn't know about Manchester United

#4 Played their 'home' matches at Manchester City's stadium for four seasons

For four seasons from 1945-1949, Manchester United called Maine Road their home.

In 1940, due to the proximity of Trafford Park industrial estate and the Manchester Ship Canal, United's headquarters was at serious risk from Hitler's bombs during World War II, and the stadium was duly pummelled by two Luftwaffe raids.

In the serial bombings, the main stand was wrecked, the dressing rooms and offices were devastated, while the pitch was scorched.

It was the most extensive damage suffered by any league club during the war, and it left Manchester United subsequently homeless.

During such desperate times, Manchester City came to the rescue of their local rivals. While reconstruction took place, United played its "home" games at Manchester City's Maine Road ground.

United was charged £5,000 per year, plus a nominal percentage of gate receipts. For four seasons from 1945 to 1949, Manchester United remained tenants at the Citizens' former home, before being issued a notice to move out.

Old Trafford was subsequently rebuilt and on 24 August 1949, they played their first match at the rebuilt Old Trafford and ran out 3-0 winners against Bolton Wanderers.