One of Manager Jim McLean's first steps was to introduce a co-ordinated youth policy and this proved to be the cornerstone of United's success of the next two decades. As the seventies drew to a close Jim McLean ended seventy barren years by guiding the club to their first major honour when they annexed the Scottish League Cup in 1979/80. The trophy was retained the following season and a second final appearance that term ended in disappointment when Rangers beat them in the Scottish Cup replay.

Arguably United's best season came in 1982-83 when they won the Premier Division title with what was then a record number of points and record number of goals scored. By then United had already established a reputation in Europe with wins over sides like Barcelona, PSV Eindhoven, Werder Bremen, Borussia Moenchengladbach, Monaco and Anderlecht.

In their first tilt at the European Cup, United reached the semi-final, only to be narrowly eliminated by AS Roma.