Over the years, several footballers have worn the shirts of both Manchester United and West Ham Unitedโ€”two iconic English clubs with rich histories and passionate fanbases. Whether they began their journey at West Ham and rose to prominence at Old Trafford, or had spells at both clubs during their careers, these players often left a mark on both sides. Letโ€™s take a closer look at some notable names who represented both clubs and the years they did so.

1. Carlos Tevez

  • West Ham United: 2006โ€“2007
  • Manchester United: 2007โ€“2009

Tevezโ€™s arrival at West Ham alongside Javier Mascherano made headlines. He played a pivotal role in the clubโ€™s dramatic survival in the 2006โ€“07 Premier League season, scoring the crucial goal against Manchester United at Old Trafford on the final day. Ironically, that performance earned him a move to United, where he won two Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League.

2. Michael Carrick

  • West Ham United: 1999โ€“2004
  • Manchester United: 2006โ€“2018

A product of the West Ham academy, Carrick showed early signs of midfield intelligence and composure. After a stint at Tottenham, he joined Manchester United and became one of the most reliable central midfielders under Sir Alex Ferguson, winning five Premier League titles and the Champions League.

3. Rio Ferdinand

  • West Ham United: 1995โ€“2000
  • Manchester United: 2002โ€“2014

Ferdinand emerged from the famed West Ham youth system and developed into one of Englandโ€™s most elegant defenders. After a big-money move to Leeds United, he signed for Manchester United in 2002 for a then-record fee for a defender. At United, he formed a legendary partnership with Nemanja Vidiฤ‡ and collected six Premier League titles and a Champions League crown.

4. Ravel Morrison

  • Manchester United: 2010โ€“2012
  • West Ham United: 2012โ€“2015

Once touted as one of the brightest talents to ever come out of Manchester United’s academy, Morrison struggled with consistency and discipline. After leaving United, he joined West Ham, where he showed glimpses of his brillianceโ€”most notably with a solo goal against Tottenhamโ€”but couldnโ€™t sustain his form.

5. Jonathan Spector

  • Manchester United: 2003โ€“2006
  • West Ham United: 2006โ€“2011

An American utility defender, Spector began his Premier League career at Old Trafford. Although he found limited opportunities at United, he secured more regular football at West Ham, making over 100 appearances for the club.

6. Javier Hernรกndez (Chicharito)

  • Manchester United: 2010โ€“2015
  • West Ham United: 2017โ€“2019

Chicharito was a fan favourite at United, known for his poaching instincts and energetic performances. After leaving the Red Devils and playing abroad, he returned to England with West Ham, where he contributed important goals despite a mixed spell.

7. Patrice Evra

  • Manchester United: 2006โ€“2014
  • West Ham United: 2018

Evra is remembered as one of Unitedโ€™s greatest modern full-backs. Years after leaving Old Trafford, he briefly returned to the Premier League with West Ham in 2018, reuniting with David Moyes. Though his spell was short-lived, it was a notable final chapter to his English football journey.

8. Paul Ince

  • West Ham United: 1986โ€“1989
  • Manchester United: 1989โ€“1995

Inceโ€™s controversial transfer from West Ham to Manchester United drew criticism after photos of him in a United shirt appeared before the deal was finalized. Despite the drama, he went on to become a vital player under Sir Alex Ferguson, helping United win two league titles and two FA Cups.

9. David Bellion

  • Manchester United: 2003โ€“2006
  • West Ham United (loan): 2005โ€“2006

French forward Bellion had a brief and largely uneventful stay at both clubs. After struggling for form at United, he was loaned to West Ham but failed to establish himself.

10. Tomasz Kuszczak

  • West Ham United (loan): 2004โ€“2005 (from Hertha Berlin)
  • Manchester United: 2006โ€“2012

Though better known for his time as a backup goalkeeper at Manchester United, Kuszczak spent time on loan at West Ham early in his career before signing for West Bromwich Albion and then United.

Final Thoughts

Itโ€™s always interesting to trace the paths of players who have donned the kits of both Manchester United and West Ham United. Whether they were rising stars at the Hammers before stepping onto the grand stage at Old Trafford, or experienced veterans returning via East London, these names bridge two historic footballing institutions in English football.