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Fans Crown Manchester United’s 1999 Treble Winners
It's the kind of pub debate that’s been going on for decades around football, and now, thanks to new research we have commissioned, we finally have some answers.
In a major poll of 2,000 football fans, Manchester United’s iconic 1998–99 treble-winning side has been voted the greatest football team of all time, topping a list packed with legends of the game.
Manchester United’s Crowning Glory
Sir Alex Ferguson’s Red Devils edged out Barcelona’s 2008–2012 juggernaut, famous for its hypnotic passing patterns and a core of Messi, Xavi, and Iniesta. In doing so, they claimed the top spot in what fans dubbed the “Ultimate XI” contest—a mix of domestic and international legends ranked together for the first time.
Third place went to the timeless Brazil 1970 World Cup-winning side, a team that redefined attacking football with Pelé, Jairzinho, and Rivellino dazzling under the Mexican sun.
The Top 20: A Golden Roll Call
The top 20 list showcases some of football's most transformative teams; those that not only won silverware but shaped how the game was played and experienced:
Manchester United (1998–99) – Treble winners
Barcelona (2008–12) – Guardiola’s golden years
Brazil (1970) – World Cup brilliance
Liverpool (1975–84) – A decade of dominance
Real Madrid (1955–60) – Five straight European Cups
Spain (2008–12) – Euro and World Cup glory
Arsenal (2003–04) – The ‘Invincibles’
Manchester City (2022–23) – Treble magic
Manchester United (1966–68) – From Busby to Best
Real Madrid (1984–90) – La Liga legends
France (1998–2000) – Zidane and co’s golden era
Manchester City (2017–18) – 100-point centurions
Brazil (1982) – Romantic football at its finest
Barcelona (1993–94) – Cruyff’s influence
AC Milan (1988–90) – “The Immortals”
Nottingham Forest (1978–80) – Clough’s “Miracle Men”
Bayern Munich (1973–76) – European dominance
Ajax (1971–73) – Total football pioneers
West Germany (1972–74) – Grit meets glory
France (1982–86) – The ‘Magic Square’ midfield
Club vs Country: Who Really Rules?
While the ranking combined club and international teams, the club vs country debate still stirs strong opinions. Interestingly:
44% of fans prefer club football over international.
36% said they'd rather see their club win a trophy than their country (only 26% chose national glory).
And in a dream match between the best international side and the top domestic XI, the club side just edged it: 41% to 39%.
Jake Ashton
Senior News Editor
What Makes a Truly Great Team?
Fans cited three essential ingredients for greatness:
Skill and talent – 64%
Exceptional teamwork – 61%
Consistency – 56%
But beyond stats and trophies, the heart of what makes these teams unforgettable is more emotional. According to the survey, 73% loved them simply because they were a joy to watch, and 66% felt inspired by their togetherness.
Play the Knockout Game
To take things a step further, we have created a knockout-style tool that pits the top 16 sides against each other. Can Brazil’s flair beat Italy’s grit? Would Arsenal’s unbeaten run hold up against Madrid’s all-conquering ‘50s side? Fans can make their picks and decide who truly deserves the title of GOAT team.
Final Whistle
Whether you're red, blue, or somewhere in between, this debate is about more than just football. It’s about identity, nostalgia, and the moments that made you fall in love with the game.
So go ahead—pick your favourite, relive the highlights, and get ready to argue your case at the pub. After all, the beautiful game is nothing without a little friendly rivalry.
