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I didn’t like the way Man United boss treated me – my team-mate had to stick up for me

A former Manchester United midfielder has recalled a tense situation involving Sir Alex Ferguson

By Kasra Moradi · Manchester Evening News

Published: Thursday, 8 October 2026 at 3:30 AM

Key Things to Know

Danny Drinkwater revealed he disliked how Sir Alex Ferguson handled contract negotiations while he was at Manchester United.
Former United captain Gary Neville intervened twice on Drinkwater's behalf to help secure an improved contract.
Drinkwater faced a scolding from Ferguson after attempting to personally negotiate further terms as a reserve player.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Former Manchester United midfielder Danny Drinkwater recalled clashing with Sir Alex Ferguson over contract negotiations as an 18-year-old reserve player. Speaking to The Athletic, Drinkwater revealed that the legendary manager shut him down and scolded him after he questioned the terms of his professional contract offer.

Drinkwater explained that club captain Gary Neville had previously negotiated on his behalf twice to secure an improved deal. Despite Neville's intervention to increase the terms, Drinkwater sought further improvements personally, prompting Ferguson to reprimand him before he eventually left United for Leicester City in 2012.

Read the full article on Manchester Evening News

I didn’t like the way Man United boss treated me – my team-mate had to stick up for me

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