Manchester United, one of the most successful football clubs in the world, has a nickname known worldwide: The Red Devils. But where did this nickname come from?

The story of how Manchester United got its nickname goes back to the 1960s when the legendary Sir Matt Busby managed the club. During this time, Manchester United was one of the dominant forces in English football, winning league titles and competing in European competitions.

However, it wasn’t until the team’s European campaign in 1968 that the “Red Devils” nickname gained widespread popularity. Manchester United was playing Benfica in the European Cup final at Wembley Stadium in London. Despite going behind early in the game, United fought back to equalize through Bobby Charlton before George Best, and Brian Kidd scored to secure a 4-1 victory.

Ardfern, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

After the game, the Manchester United players were approached by a group of supporters from Salford, a town near Manchester. The supporters were part of a local rugby league team known as the “Red Devils,” They suggested that Manchester United adopt the nickname as well. The players liked the idea, and the nickname stuck.

The origin of the rugby league team’s nickname is not entirely clear. Still, it is believed to have been inspired by a local army regiment known as the Salford Volunteers, nicknamed the “Red Devils” due to their red uniforms and the fact that they were seen as a fierce fighting force.

Since then, the “Red Devils” nickname has become an integral part of Manchester United’s identity. It is used by fans, players, and the media to refer to the club and has even been incorporated into the team’s badge and merchandise.

In conclusion, the nickname “Red Devils” was adopted by Manchester United in the late 1960s after the club’s European Cup triumph and a suggestion from a group of Salford rugby league fans. It has since become synonymous with the club and is recognized worldwide.