It all happened rather quickly. Over the past 24 hours, rumours over this matter quickly spread in the news as Fergie’s health is said to be at risk. On Wednesday morning, the two-time UEFA Champions League winner finally confirmed speculations. Parts of his statement revealed the followed:
“The decision to retire is one that I have thought a great deal about. 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.”
Sir Alex Ferguson singled out his wife Cathy, his players and the Manchester United staff for special praise before adding:
“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.”
Alex Ferguson will be having a hip operation this summer. The Old Scot will be remembered as a coach for his numerous achievements and solid personality as a mind-game winner. Fergie took over from Ron Atkinson at Manchester United in November 1986. In almost three decades, he guided the Red Devils to win 38 titles.
Two managers have been strongly linked with the now-vacant managerial position at Manchester United. They are Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho and Everton’s David Moyes. Manchester United will host Swansea City in the English Premier League this weekend. The champions will be looking to clinch their first victory in three matches since gunning down Aston Villa to seal the 2012/13 EPL title.
David Gill also declared that “Alex's vision, energy and ability have built teams - both on and off the pitch - that his successor can count on as among the best and most loyal in world sport.”
Sir Alex Ferguson will step down at the end of the 2012/13 season in a move that will surely influence a great change in modern club football.
