It’s hard to believe, but over a decade has passed since Manchester United parted ways with David Moyes.
Handpicked as Sir Alex Ferguson’s successor, Moyes was entrusted with continuing the legendary manager’s legacy at Old Trafford. However, despite his efforts to make his mark—including targeting big-name signings and introducing his own vision—he was dismissed before completing a full season.
Former United defender Patrice Evra reflected on Moyes’ departure during an episode of the Business of Sport Podcast, revealing details of a conversation he had with the club’s board ahead of the manager’s dismissal.
Evra urged Manchester United to retain David Moyes
Recalling the events of 2014, Evra admitted he was deeply saddened by Moyes’ sacking. He revealed that he had urged the club to stand by the manager.
“I only had one manager sacked during my playing career—David Moyes—and it really hurt,” Evra said.
“Many of my teammates said, ‘Patrice, he’s not up to the level,’ but I blamed us. We weren’t great because of our individual brilliance—we performed out of fear and respect for Sir Alex. So why point fingers at Moyes?
“Don’t get me wrong, he wasn’t perfect, but the decision came as a shock. I remember meeting with the director, and he asked, ‘What should we do about the manager?’ I told him, ‘This is on us. We need to wake up. It’s not the manager’s fault.’
“They asked me if Moyes had lost the dressing room. I couldn’t lie—I said, ‘Yes, he has. But still, we’re the ones who should take responsibility. Don’t sack him.’”
Moyes vs. Amorim
Moyes was dismissed just months into his tenure, a decision that, in retrospect, may have been overly harsh.
Though guiding United to a seventh-place finish in the league was disappointing, what’s followed has arguably been worse. United recently ended the season in 15th place—ironically, behind Moyes’ former club, Everton.
In comparison, Ruben Amorim—United’s current manager—is struggling even more. The numbers tell the story:
Games Managed: Moyes – 51 | Amorim – 42
Wins: Moyes – 26 | Amorim – 17
Draws: Moyes – 8 | Amorim – 10
Losses: Moyes – 17 | Amorim – 15
Win Percentage: Moyes – 51% | Amorim – 40%
While Moyes was quickly shown the door, Amorim continues to receive backing from the club’s leadership despite significantly poorer results.
