The ties between Salford City and Manchester United go deep.
Not only because they’re based in neighbouring cities, but because they share some familiar faces.
Ever since the Class of ’92 took control of Salford City, some familiar names to United fans have become synonymous with Salford as well.
Legendary United players David Beckham, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt and Gary and Phil Neville have owned a minority share in the club since 2014. Since then, the relationship between the two clubs have become more apparent than ever.
And that’s not just because of the owners of the club.
Players who have played for Manchester United in the past have gone on to play for Salford City under the new owners.
The likes of James Wilson, Danny Webber and Darron Gibson have all played at Old Trafford before taking in a stint at the Peninsula Stadium. And that’s not counting the number of players that United have sent to Salford on loan.
Despite their ties with their more prominent neighbours, Salford City are still playing in League Two – England’s fourth tier of football.
The Ammies have played in League Two ever since they gained there for the 2019/2020 season. This upcoming campaign will be the sixth consecutive season that they’ll have competed in that division.
Gary Neville reunites with a former United defender
Salford will be hoping that their new signings this summer will help them finally get over the line and up to League One. And it may be another United player who helps them achieve that goal.
Salford City have officially signed that James Chester has signed on the dotted line to play for the club this season.
Chester started his career at Old Trafford, but made a name for himself across a range of other clubs. The centre-back has played for the likes of Hull City, West Bromwich Albion, Aston Villa and Stoke City as he carved out a success career for himself.
Signing for Salford City reunites him with a familiar face as Chester made his debut for Manchester United when he replaced current Salford co-owner Gary Neville against Derby County in 2009.
So he’ll at least know he’s going to be surrounded by friendly faces.
At the age of 35, this will be a new challenge for the defender as his career takes him closer to home. Salford fans will be hoping he’s the man who will help build a solid defence as they chase automatic promotion this season.
Want to get the latest Manchester United news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
