Manchester United has officially ended the ambassadorial contract of its legendary former manager, Sir Alex Ferguson. The decision will see Ferguson, who has held the role since 2013, step down from his position at the end of the season.
This move, reported by ESPN, comes as part of a wider cost-cutting initiative at the club, following Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s acquisition of a minority stake earlier this year. Ratcliffe, the billionaire CEO of INEOS, secured his stake in February and has since spearheaded a financial restructuring aimed at reducing unnecessary expenditures. This restructuring also led to the termination of 250 staff members, saving the club an estimated £45 million annually.
Sir Alex Ferguson, 82, had been earning over £2 million a year as an ambassador, a role that allowed him to maintain close ties with the club where he cemented his legacy. The former manager, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest football coaches of all time, led United to 13 Premier League titles, two UEFA Champions League victories, and countless other honors during his 26-year tenure at the helm.
Sources within the club have emphasized that the decision to end the contract was mutual and “amicable,” ensuring Ferguson will continue to have a presence at Old Trafford. According to reports from The Athletic, Ferguson met with Ratcliffe at Old Trafford, where the new minority stakeholder informed him of the decision to cease his ambassadorial role. While the club will no longer provide financial support for the position, Ferguson will retain his non-executive director title and will remain a welcome guest at games.
In a statement from club insiders, it was confirmed, “The matter has been dealt with amicably, and Sir Alex will remain an integral part of the United family. He will always be welcome at Old Trafford.”
The move marks the end of an era for Manchester United, as Ferguson’s ambassadorial role had been a way to maintain his connection with the club after his managerial retirement. The Glazer family, United’s majority owners, had honored the agreement with Ferguson for over a decade as a gesture of respect for his contributions to the club. Since Ferguson’s departure as manager in 2013, Manchester United has struggled to replicate his success, failing to secure another Premier League or Champions League title.
The decision to end Ferguson’s contract is seen as part of a broader push by Ratcliffe to streamline the club’s operations and reduce high-profile expenditures. Ratcliffe, known for his no-nonsense business approach, appears focused on bringing United’s financial structure in line with his vision for future success, while still acknowledging the club’s storied past.
As Manchester United enters a new chapter under Ratcliffe’s partial ownership, fans will undoubtedly continue to look to Sir Alex Ferguson’s legacy as a source of pride and inspiration. His managerial accomplishments remain unmatched, and while his official ambassadorial duties may be concluding, his influence at Old Trafford will be felt for years to come.
