Sir Alex Ferguson to miss Manchester United's game against Brentford days after Ratcliffe fired him

Sir Alex Ferguson to miss Manchester United's game against Brentford days after Ratcliffe fired him

Eric Munene 13:30 - 19.10.2024

Sir Alex Ferguson's global ambassador contract was terminated to balance Manchester United's finances

Sir Alex Ferguson will not be in attendance for Manchester United’s crucial Premier League clash against Brentford this Saturday, marking the first match since his ambassadorial contract was terminated by the club’s minority owners, Ineos, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

The 82-year-old legendary manager has a prior engagement, leading to his absence from Old Trafford during this pivotal fixture.

Ferguson’s lucrative £2 million-a-year contract was cut as part of a broader cost-cutting initiative within the club, a decision that has sparked considerable debate among fans and pundits alike.

The iconic figure, who led United to an unprecedented 38 trophies over a 26-year tenure, will now be missing from the sidelines as the team grapples with a challenging start to the current season.

United's manager, Erik ten Hag, acknowledged the significance of Ferguson’s contributions when addressing the media.

"Of course it has an impact on us," Ten Hag stated. "Sir Alex is Manchester United. He built United to where the club is now, and it impacts us."

He emphasized that while Ferguson’s absence will be felt, the legendary manager remains a trusted advisor to the club.

Former United striker Eric Cantona expressed his discontent, stating, "Sir Alex Ferguson should be able to do anything he wants at the club until the day he dies. Such a lack of respect. It’s totally scandalous."

Cantona’s sentiments reflect a broader concern that the club's current ownership does not fully appreciate the legacy and influence of Ferguson.

The decision has undoubtedly split opinions, with some supporters feeling that it undermines the club's storied history.

Despite the controversy, sources within the club maintain that Ferguson’s relationship with Manchester United remains strong.

He will retain his position as a non-executive director and is said to be a close friend of the organization.

While it remains uncertain how often he will visit the club going forward, his absence this weekend symbolizes a notable shift in Manchester United’s trajectory.

With only eight points garnered from their opening seven Premier League games, the Red Devils find themselves in a precarious position, making this clash all the more crucial for the team's ambitions this season.