Manchester United, one of the most iconic football clubs in the world, has seen its fair share of legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the sport. However, amid the successes and triumphs, there are certain players whose careers at the club are forever tinged with the speculative "What if?" factor. In this article, we explore some of the players who could have left a bigger mark in Manchester United's storied history, contemplating the potential alternate paths their careers could have taken. Who knows? Maybe some potential legends are on United's roster at the moment. The Punters Page can give you better insight into today's trends and provide you with a list of bookies you should know about.

Duncan Edwards: The Tragic "What if"

The tragic tale of Duncan Edwards remains one of the most significant "What if" scenarios in Manchester United's history. A supremely talented midfielder, Edwards was a key figure in the famous Busby Babes squad. His career was tragically cut short in the Munich air disaster of 1958 at the tender age of 21. The football world can only wonder what heights Edwards might have reached had his career not been abruptly halted. Many believe he could have become one of England's greatest players ever.

Eric Cantona: The Unfinished Symphony

Eric Cantona's impact on Manchester United during the 1990s is undeniable, but his abrupt retirement in 1997 left fans wondering, "What if?" Known for his flair, creativity, and leadership, and of course, the number 7, Cantona played a pivotal role in United's dominance during his five seasons at the club. His decision to retire at the age of 30 left supporters pondering what additional successes and records he could have achieved if he had continued to grace the Old Trafford pitch.

Paul McGrath: The Defensive Maestro

Irish defender Paul McGrath's time at Manchester United was marred by persistent knee injuries. Despite the setbacks, McGrath showcased exceptional defensive prowess when fit. His departure from the club in 1989 led to a highly successful career at Aston Villa. The "What if" here revolves around the hypothetical scenario of a fully fit McGrath enjoying an extended and injury-free stint at United. Could he have become a defensive stalwart for the Red Devils for years to come?

Giuseppe Rossi: The Youth Prodigy

Giuseppe Rossi emerged through Manchester United's youth system, displaying immense promise and scoring prolifically at various youth levels. However, a combination of injuries and intense competition for a first-team spot led to Rossi departing the club in 2007. The "What if" surrounding Rossi revolves around the idea of him staying and fulfilling his potential at Old Trafford. Could he have been the goal-scoring sensation that United needed in the post-Ronaldo era?

Wilfried Zaha: The Untapped Talent

Wilfried Zaha arrived at Manchester United with high expectations in 2013, but he struggled to make an impact under then-manager David Moyes. The "What if" surrounding Zaha centres on the notion of him getting more playing time and opportunities to showcase his skills. Instead, he was loaned out and eventually sold to Crystal Palace. Could a different managerial decision have unlocked the potential of this talented winger at Old Trafford?

Conclusion

The history of Manchester United is replete with triumphs and titles, but it also harbours intriguing "What if" scenarios involving some of the club's most talented players. Whether due to tragic circumstances, early retirements, persistent injuries, or managerial decisions, these players' careers took paths that diverged from what might have been.
The allure of the unknown adds an extra layer of fascination to their stories, prompting fans to reflect on the alternate destinies that could have unfolded for these individuals in the iconic red jersey. The biggest "What if" players in Manchester United history remain enigmatic figures, forever leaving us to wonder about the untapped potential and unfulfilled possibilities that could have shaped the club's narrative even further.