Sir Alex Ferguson to retire as Manchester United manager

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has announced that he will retire from the club at the end of this season after 27 years in charge.

Rumours began to circulate at the club’s golf day on Tuesday, that after 27 years in charge of the Old Trafford club the 71-year-old would retire.

This morning –  just days after he secured his 13th Premier League title – Ferguson released a statement that it was important to him to leave the club in the “strongest possible shape.”

“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.”

Sir Alex revealed he will remain part of the set up at Old Trafford, taking up a role as director and ambassador for the club when he retires after Manchester United’s game with West Brom on May 18 – his 1,500th game in charge.

“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.”

The Man U boss paid tribute to the support of his friends, colleagues and family throughout his career, in particular his wife Cathy.

“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.”