Manchester has a rich history filled with memorable confrontations and a rivalry built on pride. Between the support for United and the backing for City lies the tale of players who played for both clubs.
These transfers weren’t just moves. Some sparked debates, others were low-key, but each involved the challenge of switching sides in a fierce rivalry. They left fans torn and created complex legacies.
At the heart of this is a common thread: ambition, reinvention, and the bravery to cross enemy lines. Their journeys highlight the human aspect of soccer, where rivalry and fate often mix.
Denis Law
Denis Law (Source: Allsport UK /Allsport)
Scottish striker Denis Law, known as “The King,” was a key figure at Old Trafford, helping his team win numerous honors, including the 1964 Ballon d’Or and the 1968 European Cup. His time with Manchester City began in 1960 and ended in 1973-74.
In his final season, he faced his former club in a memorable derby, scoring a backheel goal for City that was seen as sealing United’s relegation. He later expressed deep sadness and could not celebrate, making this moment a poignant symbol of the rivalry.
Peter Schmeichel
Peter Schmeichel (Source: Allsport UK /Allsport)
Peter Schmeichel, regarded as one of the top goalkeepers, made a significant impact during his eight years at Manchester United, where he was instrumental in the historic 1999 Treble win.
His move to Manchester City in the 2002-03 season was controversial, as fans saw him as a legend of United. Interestingly, he never lost a Manchester derby, an impressive feat that spans both clubs.
Andy Cole
Andy Cole (Source: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
Andy Cole was a prolific scorer at Manchester United, best known for his partnership with Dwight Yorke during the Treble-winning season.
He joined Manchester City for the 2005-06 season after successful spells elsewhere. This move was seen more as a practical choice rather than a contentious switch.
At City, he had a quieter influence, helping to bring back his scoring form, contrasting with the more dramatic transfers between the rivals.
Carlos Tevez
Carlos Tevez (Source: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Carlos Tevez’s transfer in 2009 was notable due to its contentious nature. After a successful two-year loan at Manchester United, he left under strained circumstances.
Upon signing with Manchester City, the club seized the moment to provoke United with a controversial billboard. Tevez quickly made an impact, winning the Golden Boot and a Premier League title, representing City’s rise and United’s challenges.
Andrei Kanchelskis
Andrei Kanchelskis (Source: Mike Cooper/Allsport)
Andrei Kanchelskis was a key player in transforming Manchester United into a leading club in the early 90s.
Following his success, he joined City on loan in 2001 but had limited impact, playing just ten games as City faced relegation, highlighting a stark contrast to his previous success.
Peter Barnes
Peter Barnes (Source: Allsport UK /Allsport)
Peter, son of a City legend, was a notable young talent at Manchester City before moving to Manchester United in the mid-1980s.
His time at United was quiet, showcasing a different era when transfers between rivals didn’t stir up major debates.
Brian Kidd
Roberto Mancini and Brian Kidd (Source: Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
Brian Kidd has a rare role in both clubs as a player and coach. He was a United product, scoring in the 1968 European Cup Final.
Later, he played for City before becoming Sir Alex Ferguson’s assistant at United. He also joined City’s coaching staff, marking a unique journey across both clubs.
Owen Hargreaves
Owen Hargreaves (Source: Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)
Owen Hargreaves’s journey began in 2007 at Manchester United but was marred by injuries, limiting his appearances.
Determined to continue playing, he joined Manchester City in 2011 but had minimal impact, marking a difficult conclusion to a once-promising career.
John Gidman
John Gidman (Source: Manchester United)
John Gidman was a steady defender who crossed the Manchester divide in the 1980s. After successful stints at clubs including Everton, he joined Manchester United in 1981.
Following his time at United, he moved to Manchester City in 1986, where he was noted for his contributions, albeit mostly unnoticed in the larger rivalry narrative.
Sammy McIlroy
Sammy McIlroy (Source: Manchester United)
Sammy McIlroy, the last signing by Sir Matt Busby, is remembered for his time at United, making a mark in the derby against City.
He later played briefly for Manchester City, but his main legacy remains tied to United, despite this short crossover.
Terry Cooke
Terry Cooke (Source: These Football Times)
Terry Cooke was part of United’s “Class of ’92,” yet struggled for playing time. In 1999, he made the notable move to Manchester City.
This direct switch was one of the few at the time, making him an early example of players crossing the divide in modern football.
Billy Meredith
Billy Meredith (Source: Manchester United)
Billy Meredith played a key role in the rivalry’s history, known for his controversial transfer from City to United during a scandal in the early 1900s.
His signing aided United in winning their first league titles, making it a pivotal moment in the rivalry.
Jadon Sancho
Jadon Sancho (Source: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images — Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
Jadon Sancho started his career at City’s academy but opted for Borussia Dortmund in 2017, seeking first-team football.
After shining in Germany, he transferred to Manchester United in 2021, representing a significant shift as a former City player returning to their rivals.
Mark Robins
Mark Robins (Source: Dan Smith/Allsport)
Mark Robins is famous for scoring the goal that saved Alex Ferguson’s job at United in 1990. This memorable moment changed the club’s history.
Years later, after other club spells, he had a brief loan at Manchester City in 1999. This connection is minor, but his legacy at United ensures his inclusion in discussions of players who crossed the divide.