Football and Christianity have had a long and complicated relationship. Today, millions of Christians worldwide love and support the game, but history shows us that believers have both opposed and encouraged football at different times. Back in 16th-century England, Puritan Christians condemned football, calling it violent and disruptive, especially because it was played on the Sabbath. But by the 19th century, the concept of “Muscular Christianity” promoted football as a tool for developing discipline, teamwork, and moral character. Interestingly, many of England’s top clubs—Everton, Manchester City, and Southampton—were founded by churches, as was Celtic in Scotland. This raises an intriguing question: Should the Christian roots of a football club, or its nickname, influence whether we support it?

Manchester United and The Red Devil Question

I have been a Manchester United supporter since I was five years old. My dad, an Arsenal fan, got me an Ian Wright kit, but my heart was already with United. Growing up, my football heroes included Cantona, Rooney, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Paul Scholes. Like me, many Christians support Manchester United, as it has the largest fanbase in England. However, its nickname—”The Red Devils”—has always raised eyebrows among believers.

The name change came after the tragic Munich air disaster, when “Busby’s Babes” was considered an unsuitable nickname. Inspired by Salford Rugby Club, which had toured France in the 1930s and earned the nickname “Les Diables Rouges” (The Red Devils), Matt Busby decided to adopt the same moniker for Manchester United. Soon, the devil symbol began appearing on scarves, match programs, and, in 1970, the club’s badge was redesigned to feature a devil holding a pitchfork.

This leads to an important discussion: Should Christians continue to support a team named after the devil? Some argue that the nickname is merely branding and has no deeper meaning. Others, however, believe that names and symbols carry weight, and associating with them could have spiritual implications. When Roy Keane starred in the controversial “So you’re a devil, are you?” advertisement, many Christians reacted strongly, reinforcing the unease around the nickname. But does this mean we should abandon the club altogether?

Nicknames and Their Spiritual Implications

If we question Manchester United’s nickname, should we also examine other teams? What about Tottenham Hotspur, named after a medieval knight known for rebellion? Or Arsenal, which represents weapons and warfare? If we’ve supported a club since childhood and later discovered that its name or imagery has questionable connotations, should we switch allegiances? Or should we focus on what the club represents to us today rather than its historical branding?

Football, Idolatry, and Spiritual Discipline

Beyond the nickname debate, there is another issue: Can football become an idol? Many fans experience intense mood swings based on match results, refuse to be interrupted during games, or even prioritise football over their faith. If your peace, joy, and spiritual life are dictated by your team’s performance, football has taken an unhealthy place in your heart. If I were to allow Manchester United’s performances in the last 10 years to affect my livelihood, I would most certainly be in for a bumpy ride and even I would not want to be around myself. A healthy relationship with Sports following is vital. I have seen cases where people skip church, get distracted in worship by checking live scores, or spend more time debating football controversies than engaging in prayer or Bible study. This is where we must exercise spiritual discipline.

How to Enjoy Football Without Making It an Idol

1. Put God First – No football match should take priority over your relationship with God. If you’re in church, focus on worship, not your phone.
2. Guard Your Heart – If a loss ruins your entire day, it may be time to reassess your attachment to football.
3. Keep It in Perspective – It’s just a game. Your identity is in Christ, not in your club’s success or failure.
4. Be Mindful of Your Words – Football debates can turn toxic. Avoid slander, rivalry, and arguments fuelled by anger.
5. Set Healthy Boundaries – If football is interfering with family time, work, or spiritual growth, establish limits.

Can Christians Support Manchester United?

At the end of the day, football is a sport—one that brings people together, teaches teamwork, and creates a sense of community. But as Christians, we must always be mindful of where our true loyalty lies. If a club’s branding makes you uncomfortable, it’s worth reflecting on whether it affects your faith. However, supporting Manchester United—or any club—does not automatically compromise your Christianity. This being said, assessing your heart on such matters and following the impulses of the Holy Spirit is paramount. The weightiest matter on this, is ensuring that your love for the game does not overshadow your love for God.

Ultimately, the issue is not just about Manchester United’s nickname. It’s about our hearts. Are we more passionate about our club than we are about Christ? Does football dictate our emotions and priorities? If so, then it’s time to realign our focus. Football should be a source of joy, not an idol. It should entertain us, not control us.

As Christians, we can enjoy the game, celebrate our teams, and engage in healthy rivalries while keeping our faith at the centre. Because no matter how many trophies our team wins, the greatest victory we will ever experience is the one Christ won for us on the cross. And that is something no football club can ever replace.