What's happened
Sir Alex Ferguson will conclude his ambassadorial role at Manchester United at the end of the season as part of cost-cutting measures initiated by new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe. This decision follows significant job cuts and financial losses reported by the club, which is currently struggling in the Premier League.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Independent, Ferguson's amicable departure from his ambassadorial role is part of a wider cost-cutting initiative under Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who has already cut 250 jobs from the club. Jamie Jackson from The Guardian highlights that Ten Hag's management is under scrutiny as the team currently sits in 14th place in the Premier League, reflecting the ongoing struggles since Ferguson's retirement. Meanwhile, Simon Peach notes that Ferguson's legacy remains significant, with fans still holding him in high regard despite the club's recent challenges. The Scotsman emphasizes that Ferguson's decision to step down is not due to any personal conflict but rather a necessary adjustment in light of the club's financial situation.
How we got here
Ferguson has served as a global ambassador for Manchester United since retiring as manager in 2013, receiving substantial compensation. The club's financial difficulties have prompted a series of cost-saving measures, including job cuts and the cessation of Ferguson's ambassadorial duties.
More on these topics
-
Manchester United Football Club is a professional football club based in Old Trafford, Greater Manchester, England, that competes in the Premier League, the top flight of English football.
-
Erik ten Hag is a Dutch professional football manager and former player. He is currently the manager at Ajax.
-
Sir James Arthur Ratcliffe is a Monaco-based British billionaire chemical engineer turned financier and industrialist. Ratcliffe is the chairman and chief executive officer of the Ineos chemicals group, which he founded in 1998 and of which he still owns
-
Sir Alexander Chapman Ferguson CBE is a Scottish former football manager and player widely known for managing Manchester United from 1986 to 2013.
-
The Premier League, often referred to as the English Premier League or the EPL outside England, is the top level of the English football league system.
-
Brentford Football Club are a professional football club in Brentford, Greater London, England, which competes in the EFL Championship, the second tier of English football.