Manchester United has seen countless players grace their pitch over the decades, and it’s astonishing to discover some of those names still active in 2026.
While many former Red Devils continue to make waves in the Premier League and top European leagues, let’s take a deeper dive into some surprising returnees.
Here are seven former United stars still making headlines in 2026.
Nani
After officially announcing his retirement in December 2024, Nani has made a thrilling comeback by signing with Kazakhstan Premier League club Aktobe.
Now at 39, he expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I’m very happy to have joined FC Aktobe and am eager to contribute to the development of the club and football in Kazakhstan.”
This marks the 11th club in his professional career, showcasing a diverse journey across nine countries. Old Trafford fans always appreciated his skill, despite skepticism from others.
Shinji Kagawa
Shinji Kagawa holds a special place in Manchester United’s history, remembered fondly for his memorable hat-trick against Norwich in 2013 despite only 57 appearances for the club.
Returning to play for Cerezo Osaka in Japan since 2023, the 36-year-old remains in excellent shape, featuring in 40 matches throughout 2025 and contributing five goals and three assists to his team.
Radamel Falcao
Falcao’s time in the Premier League wasn’t the success many envisioned, as he scored just four goals in 29 appearances, leaving United fans disappointed.
However, his story doesn’t end there. Now at 39, he continues to impress, finding the back of the net for Millonarios in Colombia, where he’s maintained his scoring prowess across various leagues.
Mame Diouf
Diouf had minimal impact during his time with United, making just nine appearances from 2009 to 2012.
Fast forward to 2026, and the 38-year-old is still active, now competing in the Turkish second division for Ankara Keciorengucu.
Lee Martin
Starting his professional career with United in 2005, Lee Martin remains on the pitch over 20 years later.
He made three appearances for the Red Devils, one in the Premier League, and has mainly navigated through the EFL. In recent years, he’s taken a step down, currently playing for Ramsgate in the Isthmian League Premier Division.
Alexander Buttner
After leaving United in 2014, Buttner has played for six different clubs and is back for his third spell at Vitesse.
At 36, he’s out of contract by season’s end, but with six goal contributions in 19 appearances, including average scores or assists every 253 minutes, retirement doesn’t seem imminent.
Bebe
Following his time at United, Bebe gained a cult following with Rayo Vallecano, known for his stunning goals.
Now 35, he is playing for UD Ibiza in the Spanish third tier and seems to be in high spirits, having scored three goals and recorded four assists in 20 games this season.
