The Busby Babes Rivals Era (1950s)
The Busby Babes era defined Manchester United's rise in the 1950s.
Manchester City's history in the 1950s is defined by the rivalry with Manchester United's 'Busby Babes', a young team built by manager Matt Busby that won back-to-back league titles in the 1955–56 and 1956–57 seasons and became the first English club to compete in the European Cup.
Quick Facts
- Primary rivalry
- Manchester United (Busby Babes)
- Key achievement
- FA Cup Final Appearance (1955)
- Notable manager
- Les McDowall (early 50s); Les McDowall (late 50s)
- League status
- Mid-table fluctuation
- Stadium context
- Maine Road
Lore & Background
The Busby Babes were a team of young players developed under manager Matt Busby, who took control in October 1945. The term was coined by a journalist like Tom Jackson, not tied to a specific debut. Key players included Duncan Edwards, Tommy Taylor, and Dennis Viollet. The team won the First Division in 1955–56 and 1956–57, with an average age of 22. In 1956–57, they became the first English team to play in the European Cup, reaching the semi-finals. The Munich air disaster on 6 February 1958 killed eight players and injured others, devastating the squad.
More in Club History & Eras
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