Football nicknames are commonly influenced by local clubs from completely different sports.
This was the case for Manchester United when manager Matt Busby lifted the name from a Salford rugby club that was called “The Red Devils” while touring France in the 1930s.
Thinking the nickname more fitting of the club, Busby declared Man United should be known as “The Red Devils.” The nickname was soon used in programmes and scarves in the 1960s and become a part of the club crest in 1970. And the club crest made it onto the Manchester United shirt in 1971.
What Are Manchester United’s Nicknames?
Manchester United goes by the nickname of “The Red Devils.” But the club is also commonly referred to as “Man United”, “United” or simply “Man U.” Rival Man City supporters, called “The Citizens,” refer to United fans as “Rags.”
In the past, the club has also been known as “Heathens” when the club official name was Netwon Heath LYR Football Club. After being founded in 1878, the team changed its name to Manchester United in 1902.
Under the manager Matt Busby, the club won back to back titles in 1956 and 1957. They were called “Busby’s Babes.” This was because of the young age of the squad with an average age of twenty-two. That nickname was soon dropped after the Munich Air Disaster of 1958.
Why Are Man United Called’ The Red Devils’?
Previously known as “Busby’s Babes,” Matt Busby wanted to change the club nickname to something more appropriate after the Munich Air Disaster plane crash. As a survivor, Busby felt it was appropriate to change the club nickname to something more experienced and intimidating, opting for “The Red Devils.”
On February 6 1958, the United team’s charted plane crash immediately after takeoff. Twenty-three people dine including team Captain Ken Rayment and eight other players in what becomes known as the Munich Air Disaster.
A Salford rugby club was touring France in the 1930s while playing in red and white kits. They were spectacular in winning all six matches. French journalists dubbed them Les Diables Rouges or “The Red Devils.”
After the plane crash, Busby felt a more fitting name was needed. He found inspiration from the Salford rugby club and it has stayed ever since.
Why Do Man City Call United Fans ‘Rags’?
Manchester City supporters call United fans “Rags” referring to an uncertain period after World War II. At the time, Old Trafford had been bombed out by the Luftwaffe. Almost homeless, United had to play in City’s Maine Road stadium.
It is also believed that the term “Rags” came from Man U supporters themselves. During the early 1930s, the club was in debt and on the brink of bankruptcy. The team even played in second-hand kits! And United supporters would go to see the “Rags” play on a Saturday.
Conclusion
There is a reason United are a central part of the European Super League. They are one of the biggest clubs in the world. But like many football clubs, their nicknames refer to humble beginnings. Whether a tragic plane crash, WWII bombings, or tough financial times, each nickname is steeped in history.
As a seasoned football enthusiast with an in-depth knowledge of the sport's history and culture, allow me to delve into the intricacies of the article regarding Manchester United's football nicknames. Drawing upon both historical context and the evolution of football terminology, I can provide a comprehensive understanding of the concepts discussed.
The article begins by highlighting the origin of Manchester United's nickname, "The Red Devils," which was adopted by manager Matt Busby in the 1930s. During a tour in France, Busby was inspired by a Salford rugby club called "The Red Devils" and deemed the moniker more fitting for the football club. This demonstrates the influence of local clubs from different sports on football nicknames, showcasing the interwoven nature of sports culture.
The nicknames associated with Manchester United, including "Man United," "United," and "Man U," are mentioned. Additionally, the derogatory term "Rags," used by Manchester City supporters to refer to United fans, is explained. The historical basis for this nickname is traced back to the aftermath of World War II when Old Trafford was bombed, and Manchester United had to play in City's Maine Road stadium, reflecting the challenges faced by the club during that period.
Furthermore, the article touches upon an earlier nickname, "Heathens," dating back to the club's founding in 1878 as Newton Heath LYR Football Club. This showcases the historical evolution of the club's identity and how it transformed into Manchester United in 1902.
A significant historical event in Manchester United's timeline is the Munich Air Disaster of 1958, which led to a change in the club's nickname. Originally known as "Busby's Babes" due to the youthful squad, the tragic incident prompted manager Matt Busby to adopt a more experienced and intimidating moniker, leading to the establishment of "The Red Devils."
The article successfully weaves together these historical events and naming conventions, illustrating the deep-rooted connections between football clubs and their nicknames. Whether influenced by triumphs on the field, financial struggles, or wartime challenges, each nickname carries a rich history, emphasizing the cultural significance of football in shaping a club's identity.
