The story behind Man United’s use of The Stone Roses’ ‘This Is The One’ before every match

Anyone who’s been to Old Trafford a few times will know there are certain routines Manchester United stick to on matchday.

Fans all have their own pre-game habits, but once things get going, there’s really only one way the club does it.

Sitting in your seat, the music that plays around Old Trafford is often something that helps create core memories, and as a result, the songs used are often intrinsically linked with the club.

Some tunes from over the years have become fan favourites. Here are five of the best songs regularly played at Old Trafford on matchdays.

The tunes you always hear before Man United kick off at Old Trafford

Man Utd fans have grown quite fond of hearing this one before kick-off. This might not be a global hit or even something you’d expect to hear at every ground. But “Soul Limbo” has become a part of Man Utd tradition for many fans. It goes all the way back to Brian Clough’s time as manager.

The Stone Roses’ “This Is The One” is always played after games at Old Trafford. Over time, it’s become closely tied to Manchester United – so much so that Erik ten Hag even used it when he was introduced as manager in 2021-22.

Bruno Fernandes on ‘Country Roads’ Before Kickoff

“But it’s a moment where every fan lifts up. Everyone in the stadium feels that song very much and it’s a song that resembles the United history as well. It was little mix of things that we thought might be a good thing to try.”

Just before the match begins, fans can hear a version of ‘United Road’, which is based on the classic ‘Take Me Home, Country Roads’. The remix has become a familiar part of the build-up at Old Trafford.

There’s another tune closely linked to Manchester United, and Gary Neville had a significant role in bringing it into the spotlight.

Gary Neville played a role in bringing ‘This is the One’ to Old Trafford

Gary Neville, a local lad and United academy product, has always had a strong connection to the club and its traditions.

After taking over as captain in 2005 following Roy Keane’s departure, Neville felt it was time for something new. He spoke to the club website last year about how he wanted to introduce a song with real Manchester roots.