“It’s truly dreadful, isn’t it?” remarks James. “All those bootcut jeans and similar styles.”
This snapshot of Manchester United’s players heading to their 2005 Christmas celebration – quite ordinary at the time – often reemerges as a younger crowd is astonished by the casual look of these superstars strolling through Manchester.
“At that time, we were completely focused on United,” Eamonn reflects. “They were everything for us – our mainstay. There was really no market for City images.”
“After every European match, the United players would hit the town, typically heading to [exclusive Deansgate venue] Sugar Lounge. It felt like part of the routine.”
“During the week, they might go out for drinks or do some shopping after training.”
The Clarkes’ knack for capturing United’s Christmas gatherings – usually with a tip from a local source – seemingly sparked conspiracy theories within the squad.
“Manager Sir Alex Ferguson would always greet us when he spotted us – ‘Are you lads still at it? Good job’ – and I think he understood that if we were outside nightclubs and such, it provided a kind of supervision for the players,” Eamonn shares.
“The players thought we were informing him about their activities. Or conversely – that he was directing us on where to catch them.”
These days, the situation is much trickier. Manchester boasts more venues appealing to those seeking luxury while maintaining a low profile.
Gary Neville, part of the 2005 Christmas celebration (wool coat over leather jacket, ripped jeans, white sneakers), owns one. He included the Stock Exchange building – the site of that 2005 party – in his property investments in 2013.
“At that time, there weren’t many places to visit,” James recalls. “Manchester wasn’t the vibrant city it is today.”
“These footballers would shop in just one place – Flannels. The employees there would inform the players about who purchased what to avoid doubling up on outfits.”
“The game has evolved now as well. Nowadays, they head home, take a nap, and spend quality time with their families.”
