Sir Alex Ferguson will retire as Manchester United manager at the end of the season, the club have confirmed.
The 71-year-old Scot, the most successful manager in British football with 49 trophies, will step down after the club’s final game of the season against West Bromwich Albion on 19 May. He will join the club’s board upon his retirement.
Announcing his decision to retire on the official Manchester United website, Sir Alex Ferguson said: “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.
“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."
