Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Manchester United’s co-owner through INEOS, has terminated Sir Alex Ferguson’s ambassadorial role, valued at £2.16 million a year.
The decision comes after Ratcliffe secured a 27.7% stake in the club earlier this year. Ferguson, who retired in 2013, had held the position for over a decade.
Ratcliffe’s move has shocked the football world, especially as United backed Erik ten Hag with nearly £200 million worth of signings this summer.
However, the club has managed only three wins from their first 11 games, sitting 14th in the Premier League.
Man United players sent Sir Alex Ferguson salary request after ruthless axe
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— Man United News (@ManUtdMEN) October 17, 2024
Former England defender Stuart Pearce suggested the current United squad should step in and cover Ferguson’s salary
“The players should fund that money to keep Sir Alex in his role,” Pearce told talkSPORT. He even jokingly added that Manchester City players could do the same, saying it “would inspire us on a weekly basis.”
Former United striker Eric Cantona was far more direct, calling the decision “scandalous” on Instagram.
He stated, “Sir Alex Ferguson should do whatever he wants at United until the day he dies. Such a lack of respect.”
Despite the backlash, Ferguson is expected to remain involved at United as a non-executive director.
He was seen sitting next to Ratcliffe during United’s 0-0 draw against Aston Villa before the international break.
