Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger given glowing send off by Manchester United legend Sir Alex Ferguson
SIR ALEX FERGUSON paid tribute to Arsene Wenger after the Arsenal boss announced that he will step down at the end of the season.
The former Manchester United boss described his old adversary as "one of the greatest Premier League managers" after 22 years with the Gunners.
Throughout his reign with the North London club, Wenger and Ferguson were fierce rivals for almost two decades.
But the 76-year-old took the chance praise the Frenchman after he announced that he will be leaving after winning three Premier League titles.
Ferguson said: "I am really happy for Arsene Wenger.
"I have great respect for him and for the job he has done at Arsenal.
"It is great testament to his talent, professionalism and determination that he has been able to dedicate 22 years of his life to a job that he loves.
"In an era where football managers sometimes only last one or two seasons, it shows what an achievement it is to serve that length of time at a club the size of Arsenal.
IT'S ALL FOE-VER Wenger's biggest rivalries at Arsenal, including Jose, Fergie and his coat
"I am pleased that he has announced he is leaving at this stage of the season, as he can now have the send-off that he truly deserves.
"He is, without doubt, one of the greatest Premier League managers and I am proud to have been a rival, a colleague and a friend to such a great man."
The Gunners boss has managed more Premier League games than any other manager in history, but Ferguson still holds the win record with 528 wins compared to Wenger's 473.
Red Devils boss Jose Mourinho also paid tribute to the Frenchman, but the 55-year-old did take a cheeky dig at Arsenal's recent record in the process.
Manchester City boss also took the chance to praise the Frenchman's "respect" and "vision" for the game.
Ex-Barcelona boss Luis Enrique and Gunners legend Patrick Vieira have been earmarked as early favourites to secure the soon-to-be vacant role.
