From glory to gloom: Manchester United's fall leaves Keralam fans heartbroken

The years since Alex Ferguson’s departure have been nightmarish for fans, barring a few bright moments, including a Europa League title and a couple of FA Cups. File picture of a view of Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium

Glory Glory Manchester United, goes the iconic terrace anthem of English Premier League (EPL) giants Manchester United. These days, though, there is anything but glory about the once-mighty European powerhouse, which sits in the relegation zone this season, much to the dismay of its formidable fan base.

For fans who have been put through the wringer, with the team managing only one win in 10 games and languishing 18th in the 20-team table, the sacking of manager Michael Carrick has come as the harbinger of yet another painful rebuilding process. Argentine Mauricio Pochettino, who previously coached the U.S. national team, has been appointed his successor.

“There is nothing more painful in the world at present than being a Manchester United fan. It is frustrating to watch the club in action, with the players unable to string together even four decent passes,” laments former Indian international N.P. Pradeep, who nonetheless hopes the club will turn the corner at some point.

Manchester United, one of the most popular football clubs in the world, has had 13 managers, including interim managers and caretakers, since the legendary Alex Ferguson retired in 2013 after guiding the club to its record 13th EPL title. The years since have been nightmarish for fans, barring a few bright moments, including a Europa League title and a couple of FA Cups.

“This season has been really bad, with just one win. It is infuriating to watch the team play despite having a good squad, not to mention the trolls from rival fans. Hopefully, things will improve, as sometimes happens under a new manager,” observes another former Indian player, Mohammed Rafi.

Naveen James, a legal professional and an ardent United fan, once went sleepless when Cristiano Ronaldo, the club legend, walked away during his second stint after criticising the way it was being run. Today, he claims to be ‘totally numb’ to the team’s state. “I was fortunate to watch seven blissful seasons under Sir Alex and will relish those memories for the rest of my life. Gone are the days when I lost sleep when United lost. I have become used to mediocrity and try to extract maximum positivity from the rare wins,” he says.

Narendar Bhat is as fanatical a United fan as they come, with Manchester United themes dominating his personal accessories. “Earlier, watching United was the biggest relief, helping me escape the hardships of life. But now it has become a torture. I still continue to watch the team’s games, but have resigned myself to the fact that another defeat is always just around the corner,” he bemoans.