Jose Mourinho gives verdict on Sir Alex Ferguson’s Man Utd contract termination
Ineos terminated Alex Ferguson's £2m contract as part of its cost-cutting drive
Jose Mourinho insists that Sir Alex Ferguson possesses something far more precious than his ambassadorial role, following the termination of his £2million contract by Ineos as part of the company’s cost-cutting measures.
Since stepping down as Manchester United manager in 2013, Ferguson has received this annual sum.
However, the decision by Ineos, owned by British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe, has raised eyebrows among fans and pundits alike.
Amicable discussions led to the conclusion of Ferguson’s existing contract, but he will continue as a non-executive director for the club.
As Mourinho prepares to face his former club in the Europa League on Thursday, he emphasizes that the legendary manager retains something far more significant.
“My relationship with Alex was amazing and incredible, when my Netflix documentary comes out, you’ll know more about the reason why I have so much respect for him,” said Jose Mourinho.
“The ambassadorial role, I don’t know in depth the situation, but it doesn’t matter why, it doesn’t matter what, Sir Alex has the most important thing of all, the love and respect of every Manchester United fan around the world.
“More important than any role, or a few pounds he doesn’t need…
“The most important thing is the love and respect every fan has for him.”
Sir Alex Ferguson, who will turn 83 in December, led Manchester United to an astonishing 38 trophies during his managerial tenure, including 13 Premier League titles and two UEFA Champions League crowns.
Despite his legacy, United currently find themselves struggling in 14th place, following their worst-ever Premier League finish of eighth last season.
This slump came despite the club spending over £200million on new players during the summer transfer window.
Since Erik ten Hag took over as manager ahead of the 2022-23 season, Manchester United have spent approximately £600million on player signings, yet the team has not seen the desired improvement on the pitch.
It remains unclear whether recent cost-cutting measures at the club will impact other Manchester United ambassadors, such as former players Andy Cole, Park Ji-sung, Dwight Yorke, Denis Irwin, and Bryan Robson.
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