Sir Alex Ferguson has said young players "will always be the spirit of Manchester United."
The former Old Trafford manager said he believed it was the "essence" of United to give youngsters the chance to shine.
Speaking at a dinner to honour Sir Bobby Charlton, marking 60 years since his United debut, Ferguson said: "When I first came to United, Bobby wanted to replicate what happened in the Busby era of the young players coming through and winning five youth cups, which was unbelievable.
"The essence of Manchester United, without doubt, is to give young people an opportunity at this club.
"Bobby Charlton absolutely believed in that, and that's what I tried to do. Looking back, it's amazing the results we had."
Ferguson, who managed United for 27 years, said he was indebted to Charlton.
"I owe my life here to Sir Bobby," he said. "He always believed in me and, apart from being the greatest legend at this club -- believe me -- and the club's greatest player, it's been a wonderful pleasure."