The former Manchester United winger returned to Carrington this week, looking noticeably different from his playing days
Andrei Kanchelskis celebrates his goal for United.
Andrei Kanchelskis returned to Manchester United this week(Image: David Davies/Mark Leech Sports Photography/Getty Images)
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Andrei Kanchelskis looked totally unrecognisable upon his return to Manchester United this week for a tour of the Carrington facilities.
The Russian winger, who was instrumental in ending United's 26-year wait for a league title, is fondly remembered for his hat-trick in a 5-0 victory over local rivals Manchester City in 1994. The club shared heartwarming footage of the 56-year-old receiving a replica shirt from the 1993/94 season during his tour, a campaign in which he played a pivotal role in securing the domestic double.
Known for his blistering pace and nimble footwork, Kanchelskis' lean, tall physique often gave defenders a lot to deal with during his time in the Premier League. Almost two decades after hanging up his boots, he still sports a full head of hair, albeit styled more slickly than the curtain hairstyle he wore during his playing days in Manchester.
The skillful winger had a successful footballing career, representing both the Soviet Union and Russia internationally. He also played for Everton, Southampton, Rangers and Fiorentina.
Kanchelskis is currently coaching Russian Second Division team Dynamo Bryansk. After retiring, he served as sporting director at First Division side FC Nosta Novotroitsk before transitioning into management with various teams across central Europe.
Upon his return to Manchester, the ex-winger was gifted a replica shirt from the 1993/94 season and enjoyed a trip down memory lane as he toured the training facilities.
The United icon will be using his trip to England to gather fresh insights and inspiration before his side's domestic campaign begins in March. Kanchelskis had an exceptional 1994/95 season with the Red Devils, during which he claimed the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award.
The attacker then made a surprising switch to Merseyside when Everton secured his signature for a club record £5million. Since then, he has maintained cult hero status at both clubs, a reflection of his exceptional ability on the pitch.
Kanchelskis was accompanied by his son Andrei - a devoted Everton supporter - and also dropped by the Toffees' training complex this week. He met up with David Moyes and witnessed their victory against Nottingham Forest at the new ground.
Tobol Kostanay's director of football former Manchester United and Everton star Andrei Kanchelskis at half time during the UEFA Europa Conference League third qualifying, second leg match at Tallaght Stadum, Dublin. Picture date: Thursday August 17, 2023.
Andrei Kanchelskis has changed drastically from his playing days
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Reflecting on his time at Old Trafford, he said: "Every name is a big name at Man United, it was an excellent time. I remember the big boss, Sir Alex Ferguson he helped me a lot. A lot of criticism for me also when I played bad crosses.
"He was always angry for me and Giggsy. But it was an excellent time and thank you very much Man United, it is still in my heart."
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