INEOS and Jim Ratcliffe’s cost-cutting measures claimed another victim as Manchester United has reportedly decided to release former manager Sir Alex Ferguson from his role as club ambassador at the end of the current season.
The move follows United’s decision to lay off over 250 employees and sever other benefits offered to members as the club looks to curtail expenses by approximately £45 million ($58.8m). Ferguson, who has served as a club ambassador since his retirement in 2013 after leading the team for over 25 years in its heyday, was reportedly on a 2 million pounds annual salary in the role.
According to sources, the club assured the 82-year-old that he will “always be welcome at Old Trafford” and described the decision as “amicable” and beneficial to both sides. Since retiring, Ferguson has been a regular presence at Old Trafford and holds a seat on the club’s ceremonial football board.
However, United’s decision has not sat well with his former players with Eric Cantona being the most vocal dissident.
“Sir Alex Ferguson should have the freedom to do whatever he wishes at the club for the rest of his life,” Cantona posted on his social media in an explicit-laden rant. “It’s a complete lack of respect. Sir Alex will always be my boss! I throw them all in a big bag of s—!”
Alex Ferguson brought Cantona to Manchester United from Leeds United before the two went on to win four Premier League titles together.
The Scotsman is the most decorated manager in Premier League history with 13 English League titles, two Champions League victories (in 1999 and 2008), and nine domestic cup wins to his name from 1986 to 2013
He still remains the last manager to guide Manchester United to a Premier League title. The Red Devils have found life difficult since his retirement, going through a panoply of coaches in search of his successor.