Our Founders
Foundation 92 is an independent registered charity founded by the Class of '92.
The Class of 92 have enjoyed some of the most successful careers in football.
They met at Manchester United in the early 90s, and drove their club – and countries – to reach new heights. After stellar careers on the pitch, Gary Neville, Ryan Giggs, Nicky Butt, Paul Scholes and Phil Neville all went on to excel in highly pressurised and challenging environments in the world of media, and as businessmen. What’s more, their attitude towards preparedness, ability to dream big, and commitment to creating opportunity is recognised the world over. Now, working with Lancaster University, it’s time to give back.
They are passionate about helping others develop the mental and physical capabilities that prepared them to succeed. Put simply, they want to give young people a start in life that’s as exceptional as the character-defining experiences they shared – in the place where it all started for them, Manchester.
Ryan Giggs
2009 Sports Personality of the Year, Ryan debuted with Manchester United in 1991. A talented left winger, he is one of the most decorated players in UK history and holds Manchester United’s record for competitive appearances. He has also enjoyed a successful management career, first as player-manager at Manchester United, then acted as assistant manager. He was appointed an OBE in the Queen's 2007 Birthday Honours List for his services to football. Ryan is invested in a number of business ventures, and once held the position as the Wales Men's National Team manager.
Paul Scholes
Paul is the most decorated English footballer of all time, with 25 trophies, including 11 Premier League triumphs and two Champions League titles. He also co-owns Salford City. Paul played for Manchester United his whole career, making 718 appearances – the third-highest in the club’s history, after Bobby Charlton and Co92 alumni Ryan Giggs. He also played for England from 1997 to 2004, gaining 66 caps. Renowned for his performance as a well-rounded, tenacious, and versatile player, he is held in high regard by player, managers and pundits alike.
Nicky Butt
Salford City co-owner, ex-England star and coach, and former head of coaching at the Manchester United youth academy, Nicky has enjoyed an exceptional career on and off the pitch. A top midfielder from 1992 to 2011, he began his career with Manchester United and spent 12 years in their first-team, winning six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, four FA Community Shields, the UEFA Champions League and the Intercontinental Cup. He has also spent time with Newcastle United in 2004 and Birmingham City. As an England international he won 39 caps in a 7-year England career.
Phil Neville
As a Class of 92 alumnus, Phil is a successful coach, player and Salford City co-owner. Versatile in defence or midfield, he helped Manchester United bring home six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, the Intercontinental Cup and the Champions League before moving to Everton in 2005. He also represented England 59 times. Phil earned his coaching license in 2012 and inspired success for England Under 21s, Valencia and Manchester United’s first team. He took charge of the England Women's National Team and lead the Lionesses to the 2019 World Cup Semi Finals. He’s also a popular pundit, appearing regularly on both TV and radio.
Gary Neville
Gary is one of the most decorated English and European footballers of all time, with a total of 20 trophies, including eight Premier League titles and two Champions League's. He spent his whole career at Old Trafford and has represented England as a player and a coach. England's most-capped right-back, Gary was Manchester United's club captain for five years. He now co-owns Salford City and, since retirement in 2011, has enjoyed success as a coach and a commentator, whilst becoming a successful and ambitious businessman.