Sir Alex Ferguson downplayed the narrative that Manchester United’s quest for dominance was solely about surpassing Liverpool, following the Red Devils’ 19th league title triumph.
In 2011, United clinched the Premier League title by drawing with Blackburn Rovers, edging out Arsenal to secure the top spot. The point gained at Ewood Park not only secured the title but also allowed Ferguson’s side to overtake Liverpool’s record of 18 first division titles.
This achievement established United as the most decorated team in English domestic football and a 20th soon followed in Ferguson’s last season in 2012/13. But under Arne Slot, Liverpool has drawn level with this season’s success ensuring United no longer sits alone on its perch.
However, the legendary Scottish manager emphasized that his focus was always on United’s success rather than overtaking Liverpool as Britain’s most successful club.
“It was a big challenge. In the 80s it was Liverpool’s time and I never thought we could achieve what we have achieved. I always looked at that first title. That opened the door for us and we had some great teams after that,” Ferguson remarked after securing United’s 19th league title.
“It’s not so much passing Liverpool. It’s more important that United is the best team in the country in terms of winning titles.
“That thing about knocking Liverpool off its perch, I don’t think I actually said it. It’s the same with the FA Cup. We have won it more times than everyone and now we have won the Premier League more times than anyone.”
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The famous ‘perch’ line has been used for years and dates back to an interview Ferguson did with The Guardian in 2002. As his side faces a title struggle against Arsenal, Liverpool legend Alan Hansen warned Ferguson was facing “the greatest challenge of his career”.
A typically-fired up Ferguson responded: “I don’t get paid to panic. My greatest challenge is not what’s happening at the moment. My greatest challenge was knocking Liverpool right off its f—— perch. And you can print that.”
Since Ferguson’s departure in 2013, United has faced a rapid decline and currently sits in 14th in the Premier League table. Liverpool meanwhile has gone from strength to strength and shown just how you follow on from a legendary managerial figure.
Given the current trajectories of the two clubs, it appears a case of when, not if, Liverpool surpasses that title record. There will certainly be more challenges for Slot next season but it would be remarkable to think United will be among those at the summit in 12 month’s time.
