2011 Manchester United Home – Rio Ferdinand #5 Large

The 2011/12 season was one of the most dramatic campaigns in Manchester United’s modern history — a year that ended in heartbreak on the final day but still showcased the club’s competitive spirit and defensive leadership from veterans like Rio Ferdinand.

• Premier League:

  • Manchester United finished 2nd, level on 89 points with Manchester City, but lost the title on goal difference after City’s last-minute 3–2 win over QPR (“Agüerooooo!”).

  • United led the table for much of the season but dropped crucial points late, including a 4–4 draw with Everton that proved costly.

• FA Cup: Eliminated in the Fourth Round by Liverpool (2–1 at Anfield).

• League Cup: Knocked out in the Fifth Round by Crystal Palace after a shock 2–1 loss at Old Trafford.

• UEFA Champions League: Failed to progress from the group stage, finishing third behind Benfica and Basel — a major disappointment.

• Europa League: Eliminated in the Round of 16 by Athletic Bilbao (5–3 aggregate), who outplayed United home and away.

• Key Storyline:

  • The season marked the start of a generational transition, with veterans like Ferdinand, Giggs, and Scholes guiding young players such as De Gea, Jones, and Welbeck.

  • Despite injuries and the heartbreak ending, United’s consistency and fighting mentality reflected the enduring influence of Sir Alex Ferguson’s leadership.

• Kit: The 2011/12 Manchester United home jersey, by Nike, featured the club’s signature red with black crew-neck collar and white shorts. Simple and traditional, it celebrated 100 years since the club first adopted the name “Manchester United.”

2. Player’s Impact – Rio Ferdinand (2011/12)

Rio Ferdinand, one of the greatest defenders of his generation, remained a cornerstone of United’s defense throughout the 2011/12 campaign.

• Appearances: 38 in all competitions (30 in the Premier League).

• Role: Central defender and vice-captain, partnered primarily with Jonny Evans after Nemanja Vidić’s season-ending injury in December.

• Key Moments:

  • Marshaled a young, reshuffled backline to one of the best defensive records in the league (33 goals conceded).

  • Led by example in crucial away wins, including against Arsenal and Tottenham.

  • Played every minute in the dramatic title run-in, providing calm and leadership.

• Style & Influence:

  • Known for his composure, tactical intelligence, and ball-playing ability, Ferdinand was instrumental in transitioning play from defense to midfield.

  • His experience proved invaluable during a season of instability at the back.

• Legacy:

  • The 2011/12 season was among Ferdinand’s final peak years.

  • His leadership through adversity reaffirmed his place as one of Manchester United’s all-time great defenders.

3. Full Squad List – Manchester United 2011/12

Manager: Sir Alex Ferguson

Goalkeepers:

• David de Gea

• Anders Lindegaard

• Ben Amos

Defenders:

• Rio Ferdinand

• Nemanja Vidić (Captain, injured midseason)

• Patrice Evra

• Jonny Evans

• Chris Smalling

• Phil Jones

• Rafael da Silva

• Fabio da Silva

• Ezekiel Fryers

Midfielders:

• Ryan Giggs

• Paul Scholes (came out of retirement in January)

• Michael Carrick

• Tom Cleverley

• Anderson

• Darren Fletcher

• Antonio Valencia

• Ashley Young

• Nani

• Ji-sung Park

Forwards:

• Wayne Rooney

• Javier “Chicharito” Hernández

• Danny Welbeck

• Dimitar Berbatov

• Federico Macheda