Lou Macari, Manchester United player

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Lou Macari played regularly for Manchester United under both Tommy Docherty and Dave Sexton. He began his career as a striker and ended it in midfield.

Macari was born in Edinburgh of Italian parents. As a schoolboy he represented Scotland and, on leaving school, joined Celtic. He spent seven years at Celtic, winning many honours and playing alongside Kenny Dalglish. In 1973, Macari became one of Tommy Docherty’s first Manchester United signings. Macari scored on his debut, but only managed four more goals that season and only six in total the season after that. 1973-1974 was a difficult season for everyone at the club, and it ended with Manchester United being relegated. Thereafter, things improved. In Division Two in 1974-1975, Macari scored eighteen goals to finish joint top scorer with Stuart Pearson. The following year, back in Division One, Macari was again top scorer, this time with fifteen goals. Under Docherty, Macari began to play in midfield, where he remained for the second half of his career. To many, he was a better midfielder than he was a striker.

Altogether Macari played for Manchester United over twelve seasons, making 401 appearances and scoring 97 goals. Whenever he played, he brought drive and energy. He was superbly fit, possessing both speed and stamina. He was comfortable on the ball and, for his size, surprisingly good in the air. He appeared in three FA Cup Finals in the 1970s and, in the victory over Liverpool in 1976-1977, it was Macari’s shot that deflected off Jimmy Greenhoff for the winning goal.

In 1984, Macari left Manchester United and became player-manager at Swindon Town. He subsequently managed a number of clubs including Stoke City (twice) and his first club, Celtic.

Macari made 24 appearances for Scotland.

profile last updated November 2010