Over the years, several players have had the privilege of wearing the iconic blue of Rangers and the red of Manchester United.
While stars like Andrei Kanchelskis, Henning Berg, and Amad Diallo have represented both clubs at Ibrox and Old Trafford, not everyone associated with both teams has enjoyed such opportunities.
Now, one Rangers favorite, who once came close to fulfilling his childhood dream of playing for Manchester United, could step onto the hallowed turf of Old Trafford in royal blue instead of the familiar dark red.
Rangers are set to face Manchester United at Old Trafford in the Europa League, with fans traveling south in large numbers to support their team.
Jack Butland’s Manchester United Connection
Rangers goalkeeper Jack Butland had a brief stint with Manchester United during the first half of 2023, joining on loan but never making a competitive appearance for the club. Despite being a lifelong United supporter, he couldn’t displace David de Gea as the starting goalkeeper.
Rangers legend John Brown expressed his surprise when United manager Erik ten Hag decided not to retain Butland at the end of the season. Instead, United turned to Andre Onana, while Butland joined Rangers after his contract with Crystal Palace expired.
This week, Butland could get the chance to prove himself as Rangers head to Old Trafford in the Europa League—provided he is deemed fit to play.
Fitness Concerns Ahead of a Potential Old Trafford Debut
Butland hasn’t featured in 2025 due to a mysterious internal bleed, which sidelined him for Rangers’ commanding 3-0 win over Celtic. In his absence, Liam Kelly and Mason Munn have stepped in as goalkeepers.
Ahead of Rangers’ 5-0 Scottish Cup victory against Fraserburgh, manager Philippe Clement shared an update on Butland’s recovery, stating:
“Jack Butland is still a question mark. But he’s close to returning to training with the squad. We will assess tomorrow whether he can rejoin the group and what conclusions to draw from that.”
While Butland missed the Scottish Cup tie, there is optimism he could be available for the Europa League clash against Manchester United. If he plays, it will mark a dream come true for the 31-year-old—playing at Old Trafford, not as a Red Devil,but as Rangers’ No. 1.
