Legendary Scot calls it a day at Old Trafford.
Sir Alex Ferguson retires. #thankyousiralex
— ManUtd_PressOffice (@ManUtd_PO) May 8, 2013
Sir Alex Ferguson will retire as manager of Manchester United at the end of this season after 26 years in charge at Old Trafford.
The club announced the news of Wednesday morning, two weeks after the Scot claimed his 13th title.
The 71-year-old will become a director and ambassador at the club.
Ferguson’s last game will be against West Brom at the Hawthorns on May 19 and his last home game at Old Trafford will be against Swansea City on Sunday.
The former Aberdeen boss has won 38 trophies since taking over from Ron Atkinson on 6 November 1986, including this season’s Premier League crown.
His trophy haul also includes two Champions League crowns, five FA Cups and five League Cups.
Ferguson is the most successful manager in the history of the British game and famously won a treble in 1999.
“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,” said the 71-year-old Scot.
“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.
“Our training facilities are amongst the finest in global sport and our home Old Trafford is rightfully regarded as one of the leading venues in the world.
“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.
“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.”
Ferguson commended all the staff who have worked with him at United, singling out World Cup winner Sir Bobby Charlton and chief exective David Gill.
“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.
“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.”
Ferguson also paid tribute to the Manchester United supporters.
“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.”
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