LOC17:52
14:52 GMT
LONDON, May 8 (KUNA) -- Sir Alex Ferguson announced his retirement from his
role as Manager of Manchester United FC at the end of the current English
Premier League season after nearly 27 years in the job.
The most successful manager in British history, who had just witnessed his
club's record 20th title, won a total 13 league titles, 19 domestic cups and
three European cups during his reign at Old Trafford.
In his retirement statement, 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.
Ferguson, 71, will go on to take on the roles of both Director and
Ambassador for the club, as speculation turns to who will fill the big boots
left by the Scotsman, with two names being touted as possible replacements,
including his compatriot, Everton FC Manager David Moyes and ex-Chelsea and
current Real Madrid Portuguese boss Jose Mourinho. (end)
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