Man Utd legend Denis Irwin pinpoints the 'biggest problem' behind the club's decline since Sir Alex Ferguson's departure as he bemoans 'difficult' decade at Old Trafford

During Sir Alex Ferguson’s farewell address at Old Trafford, the legendary manager urged fans to stand by his successor, referencing the patience he was afforded during challenging times. Despite this call for unity, United have endured a turbulent period with six permanent managers, two chief executives, and over a billion spent on transfers.

In fact, the Red Devils have yet to win a Premier League title since Ferguson left. The current season has been one of United's worst in modern history as, with six home league defeats in their opening 12 matches, they have matched a record that dates back to the 1893-94 campaign. Furthermore, United have already suffered 10 losses in just 22 league games this season, the earliest they have reached double figures in defeats since the 1989-90 campaign.

Irwin believes poor recruitment has been the key factor behind the club's inability to recapture its former glory.

Speaking candidly about the situation in an interview with Stick to Football, Irwin said: “It’s been a difficult ten years [post-Sir Alex Ferguson]. Everyone kind of knew it was going to be a difficult period after Sir Alex left. They’ve had a lot of experienced managers – Ole [Gunnar Solskjær] as well – that have looked like they’re going to do something, but that light has just closed.

“They’ve won cups, like Liverpool did in their quiet period, but not been anywhere near the league in the last ten years. It’s going to take time. I’ve said before, it’s down to the players. The manager can organise [the players], he likes a 4-3-3, but it’s literally down to the players. You wouldn’t say [Manchester] United’s recruitment over the last 10 years has been great either – that’s the biggest problem.”

Despite their troubles in the league, United will look to carry the momentum from their dramatic Europa League victory over Rangers into their upcoming clash with Fulham on Sunday. The last-gasp win provided a glimmer of hope for fans, but the team faces significant pressure to deliver consistent results.