What is Man Utd DNA - and how important is it?
- Published
Manchester United's latest search for a new manager after Ruben Amorim's sacking has revived the time-honoured call for his successor to fit the club's DNA.
This mysterious commodity is the comfort blanket in times of turmoil - usually harking back to glory days and happier times.
After Amorim's departure, former United defender Gary Neville believes the Red Devils are at the point where they need a manager "who fits the DNA of the football club".
It is not solely a Manchester United issue, though, with former Liverpool striker John Aldridge reacting to their 0-0 draw against Leeds United by posting on X: "It seems we've lost our DNA. No real drive, desire and lack of ideas."
When trouble strikes, the DNA call demands a return to what a club knows best, what it stands for, what brought its biggest successes.
But what exactly is a club's DNA?
Disciples believe it is in a club's genes - the style and emotion conjured up by simply mentioning its name.
Explaining United's DNA, Neville told Sky Sports: "Barcelona will never change for anybody. I don't believe United should change for anybody.
"The club has to find a manager who has got experience and who's willing to play fast, entertaining, attacking and aggressive football."
That was United's trademark under Ferguson and as far back as Sir Matt Busby - coupled with the desire to blood young talent.
Think the Busby Babes. Think the Class of 92, which included Neville, brother Phil, David Beckham, Nicky Butt, Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes.
So many of those who were instrumental to those later triumphs are now significant media figures, increasing scrutiny.
Indeed Amorim - in his final days at United - said: "If people cannot handle the Gary Nevilles and the criticism of everything, we need to change the club."
When Aldridge mentioned Liverpool losing their DNA, he was referring to passion, desire and emotion embedded in the club's triumphs - exemplified most recently by the electrifying attacking football they played under Jurgen Klopp.
But times change. The most valuable playing currency in football now is winning - no matter how that is achieved.
What do you make of Manchester United's DNA? Is it important to you as a fan, or are you not too bothered about the club sticking to the idea?
Read Phil McNulty's full piece on Manchester United's DNA here
