Wilfred McGuinness, an 86-year-old former Manchester United player and manager, currently resides at Care UK’s Oakfield Croft care home in Sale. He was part of the original ‘Busby Babes’ and took over as manager of the club in 1969 after Sir Matt Busby. McGuinness began his career with Manchester United in 1953, quickly progressing through the ranks and making his first-team debut at just 18 years old. Despite suffering a career-ending leg injury at 22, he transitioned into coaching and eventually became the youngest manager in Manchester United’s history at the age of 31.
During his time as manager, the team reached three cup semi-finals under his leadership. After leaving United, McGuinness went on to manage Panachaiki in Greece, leading them to their first European competition appearance. Recently, McGuinness reflected on his time with Sir Matt Busby, praising him for treating the team like family and instilling a passion for the game in them.
However, McGuinness expressed disbelief at the current squad’s wages, highlighting the vast difference from his playing days. While he earned £24 a week for the love of the game, current top earner Bruno Fernandes reportedly makes around £375,000 weekly. McGuinness’s surprise at the modern football salaries is understandable, considering that George Best was the first player to earn £1,000 a week in 1968, over a decade after McGuinness retired.
Recently, McGuinness was pleasantly surprised by a reunion party organized by Oakfield Croft care home, where he was visited by former Manchester City and United players. The event, part of the Wishing Tree initiative, allowed McGuinness to reconnect with old friends and teammates, reminiscing about their football days. The gathering was filled with laughter, memories, and special moments, with guests like Tony Whelan, Steve Fleet, and Fred Eyre sharing stories and celebrating McGuinness’s legendary career.
The atmosphere was enhanced by football-themed decorations, including McGuinness’s England caps and shirts, and special football cupcakes baked by Head Chef Paul Ogden. The reunion brought joy and nostalgia to McGuinness, who couldn’t stop talking about the wonderful day. Home Manager Daniel Cole expressed his gratitude to everyone involved in making McGuinness’s wish come true, emphasizing the importance of honoring a football legend like McGuinness in Manchester.
The heartwarming reunion at Oakfield Croft care home not only celebrated McGuinness’s remarkable career but also showcased the enduring camaraderie and bond among former footballers. McGuinness’s astonishment at the evolution of football wages serves as a reminder of the changing landscape of the sport, where modern players earn significantly more than their predecessors. Despite the differences in eras, the love for the game and the memories created on the field remain timeless, as evidenced by the joyous reunion at Oakfield Croft.
