Manchester United have been unlucky in finding a solid and reliable striker since Ferguson retired in 2013

Although the forwards have come and gone in recent years, most of them have failed to leave a deep mark, the club's history scroll is full of legendary No. 9 players, who are the mainstays who lead the forward line during the team's most glorious period.

5. Van Nisstrui

Year of play: 2001–2006

Appearances: 219 Games

Goals: 150 assists: 30 Van Nie's Manchester United career may have ended a bit suddenly, but there are few strikers in Premier League history who are more deadly than him. The Dutch shooter is known for his ability to grab points and unexpectedly breaking the goalkeeper's fingers. He has the sense of a killer as a truly top striker.

Even in the last season when it was considered to have a "slump" in form, he still scored 21 league goals. The super high efficiency of 150 goals in 219 games is enough to say it all. His running position, calmness and ruthless ending ability made him one of the most terrifying strikers in European football at that time.

4. Dennis Lau is still the only Golden Ball winner in Scotland, and he won the award in his prime during his prime at Manchester United in 1964. As a fearless and talented shooter, Lao scored more than 200 goals for the club, and his goal efficiency was enough to make any modern striker envious.

Although he controversially ended his career in his arch-rivals in the same city, Law's position as the legend of Old Trafford has never wavered. His talent, aggressiveness and deadly instincts made him the heart of Manchester United in the 1960s. It is hard to imagine any striker who can better interpret the club's offensive spirit than him.

3. Charlton

Year of play: 1956–1973

Appearance: 758 Games

Goals: 249 assists: No record

Sir Charlton is far more than a striker. He is a symbol of Manchester United's rebirth in the ashes after the Munich air crash and is also a member of England's World Cup champion. Although he played in the midfield for most of his career, his record of 249 goals has been a club record for decades.

This two-time Golden Globe legend perfectly combines superb skills, powerful shooting and unparalleled vision. His loyalty, leadership and football wisdom set a benchmark for future generations. In short, he is one of the most important legends in Manchester United's history.

2. Cantona

Year of playing: 1992–1997

Appearances: 183 Games

Goals: 81 assists: 62 times

When Cantona joined from Leeds United in 1992, he changed Manchester United almost overnight. His leadership, creativity and domineering attitude make him the perfect core of Sir Ferguson's rising dynasty. As the captain, he is full of authority, and contributes sharp performance on the offensive end, integrating strength and skills.

Although his time in Old Trafford was relatively short, his influence was extremely profound. Five seasons, four league champion trophys, and the legend that still echoes in the stands of Dream Theater. At the age of 31, Cantona has established his position as one of Manchester United's most beloved legends.

1. Rooney

Playing Year: 2004–2017

Appearances: 559 Games

Goals: 253 assists: 144 times

Rooney can top the list not only because of his amazing data, but also because of his unparalleled versatility and his persistence in the club for more than ten years. After joining Everton as a teenager, he quickly became the spokesperson for Manchester United and scored a hat-trick in his Champions League debut. 253 goals allowed him to surpass Bobby Charlton and become the club's top scorer in history.

But Rooney is far more than a scorer. His creativity, tandem ability and adaptability to constantly adjust his character as time goes by make him seem extremely precious. This true modern Manchester United legend has led the team to brilliant victories both at home and in Europe.