MANCHESTER UNITED have confirmed Alex Ferguson will retire at the end of the
season after 27 years at the club.
Fergie, 71, walks away from Old Trafford having secured United’s 13th Premier
League title.
The Scot said: “The decision to retire is one that I have thought a great deal
about and one that I have not taken lightly. It is the right time.
“It was important to me to leave an organisation in the strongest possible
shape and I believe I have done so.
“The quality of this league-winning squad, and the balance of ages within
it, bodes well for continued success at the highest level whilst the
structure of the youth set-up will ensure that the long-term future of the
club remains a bright one.
“Our training facilities are amongst the finest in global sport and our home
Old Trafford is rightfully regarded as one of the leading venues in the
world.
“Going forward, I am delighted to take on the roles of both director and
ambassador for the club. With these activities, along with my many other
interests, I am looking forward to the future.”
Ferguson added: “I must pay tribute to my family, their love and support
has been essential.
“My wife Cathy has been the key figure throughout my career, providing a
bedrock of both stability and encouragement. Words are not enough to express
what this has meant to me.
“As for my players and staff, past and present, I would like to thank them all
for a staggering level of professional conduct and dedication that has
helped to deliver so many memorable triumphs.
“Without their contribution the history of this great club would not be
as rich.
“In my early years, the backing of the board, and Sir Bobby Charlton in
particular, gave me the confidence and time to build a football club, rather
than just a football team.
“Over the past decade, the Glazer family have provided me with the platform to
manage Manchester United to the best of my ability and I have been extremely
fortunate to have worked with a talented and trustworthy chief executive in
David Gill. I am truly grateful to all of them.
“To the fans, thank you. The support you have provided over the years has been
truly humbling.
“It has been an honour and an enormous privilege to have had the
opportunity to lead your club and I have treasured my time as manager of
Manchester United.”
Along with 13 league titles, Ferguson also guided United to two European Cups,
five FA Cups and four League Cup triumphs.
His last last game in charge will be at West Brom on May 19