‘There's no way he would not be in jail’ - Evra recounts Sir Alex Ferguson’s evil antics on Man United players
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Evra recounts Sir Alex Ferguson’s evil antics || Imago

‘There's no way he would not be in jail’ - Evra recounts Sir Alex Ferguson’s evil antics on Man United players

Stephen Oladehinde 15:20 - 14.05.2025

Patrice Evra believes Sir Alex Ferguson's past management tactics, which he described as "evil", would result in imprisonment if employed in today's football environment.

Ferguson's methods, though often criticised for their severity, were ultimately successful in achieving their goals.

He cultivated an attitude within his Manchester United teams, particularly among the senior players, that resulted in harsh treatment of some of their teammates.

However, with that, he won 13 Premier League titles, five FA Cups, and two Champions League victories across his 26 years managing at Old Trafford.

What Evra said about Ferguson

Evra believes Sir Alex Ferguson's managerial tactics, which frequently brought players to tears, would be considered illegal in modern football.

He told the SDS podcast, "If Ferguson was coaching right now, he would probably end up in jail. There's no way Ferguson would not be in jail with what he did.

Patrice Evra, Man United legend || Imago
Patrice Evra, Man United legend || Imago

"Do you know how many players I saw cry because he gave them the hairdryer, throwing boots – he was evil."

Evra recounted an incident in Saudi Arabia where Ferguson strongly criticised the young Danny Welbeck.

He explained, "Wayne Rooney gave the ball to Welbeck, but he missed the penalty. We lost the game, but it was a friendly, like a 45-minute game.

Sir Alex Ferguson, Man United legendary manager || Imago
Sir Alex Ferguson, Man United legendary manager || Imago

"When we got back into the dressing room, Ferguson [shouted] 'Welbeck!' I and Welbeck were in the toilet; he was having a pee, but Ferguson was shouting. 

"'Who the f*** do you think you are, coming in the first team and taking a penalty?' I was like, 'Boss, it's just a friendly game.' He was like, 'F*** the friendly game.'"

Evra played under the fiery Scottish manager at Manchester United for seven and a half years, from 2006 to 2013, giving him an up-close view.

Experiencing Sir Alex Ferguson's management techniques, notably his "hairdryer treatment", formed a key part of his professional development.

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