⚽ Manchester United (1979-1980) Squad Then and Now

The 1979–1980 Manchester United squad represented a defining era for the Red Devils — a time of rebuilding and near glory under manager Dave Sexton and assistant manager Tommy Cavanagh. Determined to restore United’s place among the elite, Sexton built a disciplined, tactically intelligent side that came agonisingly close to winning the First Division title, finishing just behind Liverpool.

In this video, we look back at every player from that memorable campaign and reveal where they are today. From the dependable goalkeeping of Gary Bailey and Paddy Roche, to the commanding defence of Martin Buchan, Gordon McQueen, and Arthur Albiston, this was a side built on solid foundations. The midfield — featuring Ray Wilkins, Lou Macari, and Sammy McIlroy — balanced hard work with creativity, while up front, Joe Jordan, Jimmy Greenhoff, and Andy Ritchie carried the attacking threat.

The 1979–1980 season may not have delivered a trophy, but it captured the fighting spirit and determination that would define Manchester United for decades to come.

👉 Watch until the end to see how each member of the 1979–1980 squad has changed over the years — and subscribe for more Then and Now retrospectives celebrating football’s most iconic teams and players.

⸻

⚽ Manchester United (1979–1980) Squad:
Manager: Dave Sexton
Assistant Manager: Tommy Cavanagh

Gary Bailey – Goalkeeper
Paddy Roche – Goalkeeper
Gordon McQueen – Centre-Back
Kevin Moran – Centre-Back
Martin Buchan – Centre-Back
Nikola Jovanovic – Centre-Back
Steve Paterson – Centre-Back
Arthur Albiston – Left-Back
Stewart Houston – Left-Back
Tom Connell – Left-Back
Jimmy Nicholl – Right-Back
Lou Macari – Midfielder
Ray Wilkins – Central Midfield
Sammy McIlroy – Central Midfield
Tom Sloan – Central Midfield
Steve Coppell – Right Midfield
Mickey Thomas – Left Midfield
Ashley Grimes – Left Midfield
Chris McGrath – Right Winger
Joe Jordan – Centre-Forward
Jimmy Greenhoff – Centre-Forward
Andy Ritchie – Centre-Forward

Music: 'Goliath' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Fair Use Notice
This video may include copyrighted material used under the fair use doctrine (Section 107 of the Copyright Act) for purposes like criticism, commentary, and education.

Видео ⚽ Manchester United (1979-1980) Squad Then and Now канала Football Then & Now