Sir Alex Ferguson, the iconic former manager of Manchester United, will step down as the club’s ambassador at the end of the season, a source familiar with the decision confirmed to The Associated Press on Tuesday.
The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, noted that the announcement has not yet been made public. Ferguson, who will turn 83 in December, leaves his role amicably and will “always be welcome at Old Trafford.”
Ferguson, who led United to 13 Premier League titles and is considered one of the greatest managers in football history, is England’s most successful manager with a total of 28 major trophies. He has served as the club’s ambassador since retiring in 2013, following his last league title with United.
His departure coincides with significant changes at the club, including a partial purchase by British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe in February. Ratcliffe’s $1.3 billion investment for a 27.7 percent stake has triggered a major restructuring, including approximately 250 staff redundancies, as United faces reported losses of $148 million.
Ferguson joined United in 1986, reviving the club’s fortunes after a prolonged period of decline. He ended a 26-year wait for the league title in 1993 and dominated the Premier League until his retirement, when United finished 11 points ahead of Manchester City.
His tenure also included two Champions League titles and an unprecedented treble in 1999, when United claimed the Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup.
Since retiring, Ferguson has frequently attended both home and away matches, even as the club has struggled on the pitch. Ratcliffe has taken control of United’s football operations, previously managed by the Glazer family, the majority shareholders.
A new CEO, Omar Berrada, and a new sporting director, Dan Ashworth, have been appointed, alongside key figures from Ratcliffe-owned Ineos Sport, including Dave Brailsford and Jean-Claude Blanc, who have joined the board.
Ferguson remains a non-executive member of the board.
