When did Manchester United last win the Premier League? Struggles since Sir Alex Ferguson

Manchester United fans are once more hoping for a new dawn in 2025/26 after enduring their worst season in the Premier League era.

Ruben Amorim could not mastermind much of a recovery after the difficult first couple of months under Erik ten Hag, and the Red Devils finished in 15th place in the table. They also lost the Europa League final to Tottenham, meaning they ended the campaign without a trophy and failed to qualify for European football of any kind for the first time in a decade.

It is certainly hoped that things will be better this term, but the idea of a challenge for the title feels fanciful. Indeed, it has done for many years now.

The Sporting News takes a look at the last time United secured the Premier League title, alongside documenting how far off the summit they have been in years since.

When did Manchester United last win the Premier League?

Manchester United last won the Premier League title almost a decade ago in 2012/13, in what was to be the last season that legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson would spend at the club. 

In convincing fashion, they finished eleven points clear of near neighbours Manchester City who were their closest competitors. They maintained consistent form throughout the season, going on an 18-match unbeaten run from November 2012 to April 2013, winning 16 of their 18 fixtures while only dropping points to Swansea City and Tottenham Hotspur away from home. 

The Red Devils did the double over rivals Liverpool, defeating them 2-1 home and away in two major victories in the context of the season.

Nevertheless, their most important victory of the campaign would come at the Etihad Stadium in December 2012, where a Robin van Persie free-kick in injury time would seal a massive three points for Ferguson’s men in pursuit of their record 20th title.

The Flying Dutchman was the top scorer in the Premier League in 2012-13, netting an astonishing 26 goals in 30 matches. On April 22, 2013, United would confirm themselves as champions as a stunning hat-trick from Van Persie lead to a 3-0 victory over Aston Villa at Old Trafford putting the title beyond the reach of Manchester City who lost the day before. 

What has Manchester United’s record been since their last Premier League title?

Since the days Ferguson, United have endured a period of turbulence in their more recent history, struggling to mount a proper charge for the Premier League title once again. 

The Sporting News below relays the story from 2012/13 illustrating how far the Red Devils have been off the top of the pile in each of their campaigns since.