Sir Alex Ferguson, Manchester United’s legendary manager, will be stepping down from his role as a global ambassador for the club after INEOS, part-owners of the team, ended his multi-million-pound contract.
The 82-year-old has been an iconic figure at Old Trafford for decades, both as a manager and later as a visible presence in the director’s box. His ambassadorial role began in 2013, following his retirement from management, with an annual salary of £2.16 million ($2.82 million).
According to reports, the decision to end the contract was mutual and without conflict. It is part of Alex Ferguson’s broader effort to reduce his professional commitments, allowing him to step back from various time-consuming roles. Despite stepping down from his formal position, Ferguson remains a welcome presence at Old Trafford, where he is expected to continue attending matches and supporting the team.
Ferguson’s departure comes amid cost-cutting measures at Manchester United. The club has been experiencing financial losses, prompting job reductions across multiple departments. These cuts are part of broader efforts to balance the club’s finances, which have been under strain for some time.
Alex Ferguson’s Historic Legacy at Manchester United
Alex Ferguson’s managerial tenure at United is widely regarded as one of the most successful in football history. During his time at the club, which spanned 26 years, he led the team to an incredible 38 trophies, including 13 Premier League titles and two UEFA Champions League victories. His influence on the club remains unmatched, even years after his retirement in 2013. The end of his ambassadorial role marks the conclusion of another chapter in his long-standing relationship with United.
United’s current on-field struggles provide a stark contrast to the glory days under Alex Ferguson. The team finished last season in eighth place, their worst-ever Premier League finish, despite heavy spending on players. Under the leadership of manager Erik ten Hag, who took charge before the 2022-23 season, the club has spent approximately £600 million on new signings. However, their investment has yet to yield desired results, with the team currently sitting in 14th place.
It remains unclear whether other club ambassadors, such as former players Andy Cole, Park Ji-sung, Dwight Yorke, Denis Irwin, and Bryan Robson, will be affected by the ongoing financial restructuring at the club.
As Ferguson steps away from his formal duties, Manchester United continues to navigate challenges on and off the field. The club’s current struggles underscore the significance of Ferguson’s achievements, even as the team faces a new era of financial and football-related hurdles.
