Signing Info:
Transferred from: Club Atletico de Madrid, 21/08/1999, £1.5m
Previous Clubs:
RCD Mallorca, Club Atletico de Madrid
Debut:
30/08/1999 v Newcastle United (H) 5-1 (Premiership)
Farewell:
Transferred to Bolton Wanderers, 26/06/2006, £Free
Passed Away:
Biography
Early Life and Youth Career
Born on May 21, 1977, in Cape Town, South Africa, Quinton Fortune began playing football on the streets before a move to England saw him at Tottenham Hotspur's academy joining the London club from 1991-1995, a move to Spain with Mallorca & Atlético Madrid B & Atlético Madrid.
Arrival at Manchester United
On 21/08/1999 Fortune transferred from Atlético Madrid, for £1.5m, making his debut during a league match on 30/08/1999 v Newcastle United at Old Trafford. He was praised by Sir Alex Ferguson for his versatility—comfortable at left-back, central midfield, or on the wing—and his fearless approach to big matches.
Fortune made 126 appearances for Manchester United scoring 11 goals mostly playing a squad role during one of United’s most successful eras. Although competition for places limited his starts, Fortune’s adaptability made him a trusted option off the bench and in cup ties. On 11-01-2000 Fortune scored twice in the famous Maracana Stadium during the Club World Cup.
International Career
A stalwart for the South Africa national team, Fortune earned 46 caps between 1996 and 2005. He represented the Bafana Bafana at the 1998 & 2002 FIFA World Cups.
Later Career & Post-Retirement
After leaving United in 2006, Fortune had short spells at Bolton Wanderers, Brescia, Tubize of Belgium & Doncaster Rovers before retiring in 2008. Since hanging up his boots, he’s pursued coaching as an assistant with Reading, Guadalajara & Tigres UANL of Mexico.
Legacy
Quinton Fortune remains celebrated by Manchester United fans for his commitment and team-first mentality. As the 1st African to play at Old Trafford, his journey—from Cape Town to glory—continues to inspire aspiring footballers worldwide.