May played a key role in the team as Blackburn Rovers were promoted to the Premier League, before helping the side to record a second-place finish. In 1994 he would transfer to Manchester United for a £1.2 million fee.
At Manchester United, May was bought with the future in mind, with an ageing partnership of Steve Bruce and Gary Pallister at centre back. He would get his early opportunities at right-back due to injuries to Paul Parker.
After vying for a place at right-back with upcoming star, Gary Neville, May was given a starting berth at centre back in the 1996-97 season displacing Steve Bruce. He would help United to retain the League title that season, as well as help them to a Champions League semi-final. At this time, he received his first call up to the England team, but would never be capped.
Despite less game time in the years that followed, due to the signings …