Introduction
The city of Manchester stands as a symbol of passion, pride, and footballing excellence. For over a century, its two flagship clubs — Manchester United and Manchester City — have represented not just opposing teams, but contrasting identities, ideologies, and generations of loyal fans. The Manchester derby is one of the most fiercely contested rivalries in football, steeped in history and charged with emotion. To many supporters, the very idea of a player switching sides is unthinkable. Yet, over the years, a select few have dared to wear both red and blue, stepping across enemy lines in search of opportunity, redemption, or glory.
This article delves into the lives and careers of the top five footballers who played for both Manchester United and Manchester City, exploring how they bridged this bitter divide and what their legacies mean in the context of one of England’s most intense footballing rivalries.
The Fierce Manchester Rivalry
Before diving into the individual players, it's important to understand the roots of this rivalry. Though both clubs hail from the same city, their histories have followed different trajectories. Manchester United, formed as Newton Heath in 1878, has long been considered one of the most successful and popular football clubs in the world. With a rich legacy built on success in England and Europe, United’s dominance was especially notable during the Sir Alex Ferguson era.
Manchester City, on the other hand, has had its own glorious moments but struggled for decades to match United’s consistency and reach. That began to change dramatically in 2008 when Abu Dhabi United Group purchased the club, initiating a new era marked by record-breaking signings, a new footballing philosophy under Pep Guardiola, and a surge of domestic and European success.
The rivalry is no longer a battle of history versus hope; it is now a clash of titans. As both clubs strive for supremacy, the idea of a player wearing both shirts becomes increasingly controversial — and intriguing.
5. Carlos Tevez
Carlos Tevez is perhaps the most infamous example of a player who not only played for both clubs but thrived in each shirt. The Argentine forward initially made waves in English football with West Ham United, but it was his move to Manchester United in 2007 that elevated him to stardom. Tevez joined United on a two-year loan deal and formed a deadly attacking trio with Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo.
During his stint at Old Trafford, Tevez won two Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League. Despite his success, Manchester United failed to secure his permanent transfer. The fallout was significant — and shocking. In 2009, Tevez crossed town to join arch-rivals Manchester City.
The move was more than a transfer; it was a statement. Tevez became the face of City’s revolution, a talismanic figure who led the club to an FA Cup victory in 2011 — their first major trophy in 35 years — and a Premier League title in 2012. He even shared the Premier League Golden Boot in the 2010-11 season.
Tevez’s time at City had its ups and downs, including a high-profile fallout with then-manager Roberto Mancini, but his impact cannot be overstated. He is the only player on this list to have won the league title with both clubs, cementing his legacy as a rare and audacious footballer who conquered both sides of Manchester.
4. Brian Kidd
Brian Kidd’s story is a tale of deep roots, loyalty, and an unexpected shift. Born in Collyhurst, Manchester, Kidd came through the youth ranks at Manchester United and made his senior debut in 1967. He immediately made his mark, scoring in the final of the European Cup as United triumphed 4-1 over Benfica in 1968 — the club’s first European success.
Kidd became a regular fixture in the United lineup throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s. In total, he scored 52 goals in 203 league appearances. His departure in 1974, following United’s relegation, was a sign of the times. After a brief stint at Arsenal, Kidd made a surprising return to Manchester — but this time in sky blue.
From 1976 to 1979, Kidd played for Manchester City, scoring 44 goals in 98 league appearances. He became a respected figure at both clubs and would later return to Manchester City in a coaching capacity, serving as assistant manager under both Roberto Mancini and Manuel Pellegrini.
Few players have had such deep ties to both clubs, both as a player and coach. Brian Kidd is remembered not just for his goals, but for his enduring presence in Manchester football.
3. Andy Cole
Andy Cole was one of the most prolific strikers in Premier League history. He made his name with Newcastle United but truly rose to superstardom following his move to Manchester United in January 1995 for a then-British record fee.
At Old Trafford, Cole was a central figure in one of United’s most successful eras. He won five Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and was a vital part of the 1998-99 treble-winning team. His partnership with Dwight Yorke is considered one of the most lethal in Premier League history. In total, Cole scored 93 goals in 195 league appearances for the Red Devils.
After leaving United in 2001, Cole embarked on a journey across several Premier League clubs. In 2005, he made a brief yet notable stop at Manchester City. Although his time there lasted only one season, Cole finished as the club’s top scorer with 10 goals in all competitions.
While his contributions to City were limited compared to his legendary status at United, Andy Cole remains one of the rare elite players to have represented both sides of Manchester.
2. Peter Schmeichel
Peter Schmeichel is widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers in football history. His arrival at Manchester United in 1991 marked the beginning of a golden era. Over the next eight years, the Danish international became a symbol of strength, leadership, and match-winning saves.
Schmeichel was a cornerstone of United’s success throughout the 1990s. He captained the side during their iconic 1999 Champions League final win over Bayern Munich, completing the historic treble. It was the perfect send-off for a player who had given everything to the club.
What came next, however, surprised many fans. After short spells with Sporting CP and Aston Villa, Schmeichel returned to the Premier League with Manchester City in the 2002-03 season. Though he only made 29 league appearances for City, his presence was felt.
He became the first player to appear for both Manchester clubs in a derby since the 1970s. Notably, during his one season at City, Schmeichel remained unbeaten in derby matches against United.
1. Denis Law
Denis Law’s story is perhaps the most poetic and controversial of them all. The Scottish striker began his journey at Manchester City in 1960 after a record-breaking transfer from Huddersfield Town. His time at City was brief, and he soon moved to Torino in Italy. It was his move to Manchester United in 1962 that defined his career.
Law became a club legend at United, scoring 237 goals in 404 appearances. He won two First Division titles and played a crucial role in the club’s European ambitions. In 1964, Law became the only Scottish player to win the Ballon d’Or, cementing his place in football history.
After a glittering 11-year spell at Old Trafford, Law returned to Manchester City in 1973. In what would become a legendary and bittersweet moment, he scored a backheeled goal against Manchester United on the final day of the 1973-74 season — a goal that contributed to United’s relegation.
Out of respect, Law refused to celebrate. It was his final act in professional football, and one of the most iconic moments in Manchester derby history. Denis Law remains one of the few players revered by both sets of fans, a testament to his greatness and dignity.
Conclusion
Crossing the divide in Manchester is not a decision taken lightly. The players who have done so have often faced criticism, scrutiny, and emotional turmoil. Yet, their careers remind us that football, at its heart, is a profession — one driven by ambition, opportunity, and sometimes, redemption.
From Carlos Tevez’s trophy-laden journey to Denis Law’s unforgettable farewell, these five players have etched their names into Manchester’s football folklore. Their stories add richness and complexity to the fierce rivalry between United and City, proving that while the colors may change, true talent transcends allegiance.
In the ever-evolving landscape of football, where loyalty is rare and change is constant, these players stand as living proof that history is not always black and white — or red and blue.