Sir Alex and MUFC; still United after 25 years

Sir Alex Ferguson; the man, the visionary, the legend who has transformed Manchester United into one of the most successful and widely supported clubs in the world. His genius has influenced and guided the rise of footballing icons from the likes of Steve Bruce to Eric Cantona and Ryan Giggs. And this weekend Old Trafford celebrated the silver anniversary of its most lucrative manager in the history of the club. The ‘Sir Alex Ferguson stand’ was unveiled. It honours one of the most admired and respected managers the beautiful game has ever seen. So let us take a look at five reasons why Fergie’s career has far exceeded that of so many others in the cutthroat industry that is football.

Firstly, the trophies speak for themselves. He has won a total of 48 trophies throughout his managerial career, 37 of those major honours in charge of the Red Devils themselves. This has resulted in him acquiring the unrivaled accolade of the most successful British manager in history. It’s true! And any Liverpool fan who argues this by mentioning the name of one Bob Paisley, needs only to compare the statistics to realise Fergie always comes out on top.

Secondly, the man has an undeniable ability to deal with star players and their star egos. Manchester United has seen the entrance and exit of numerous players with big personalities including Gordon Strachan, Paul Ince, Ruud Van Nistelrooy and of course David Beckham following the infamous “football boot incident” in the dressing room. He regularly enforces the mentality that no player is bigger than the club. Manchester stands United under his watch and the fans love him for this.

Thirdly, he still maintains an astonishing ability to foster the true talents of Premiership football. Despite the media’s attempts to meddle in the personal lives of players including the scandals of Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney, Ferguson dismisses vicious gossip and supports the players one hundred and ten percent. Sir Alex has always had a rocky relationship with the press, and none more so than the BBC, but this shows he is all about the football. His passion and interest lies in what happens on the pitch, overshadowing the occasional misdemeanors off the pitch. In the eyes of the fans, getting results is far more important getting involved in never ending press accusations.

Fourthly, Fergie has become an unstoppable force on the European stage in recent years. The most memorable of all European success of course falls to winning the Champions League in 1999, completing the treble alongside FA cup and Premier League titles. However since then, he has taken United to numerous European finals as well as lifting the title in 2008. Even now, United continue to challenge the likes Barcelona and Real Madrid. He has established himself as a dominant figure in Europe where many other Premier League managers (including Wenger) have failed.

Fifth and finally, Sir Alex has spent 25 years at the top. He commands respect on a global scale and his name alone continues to bring world-class signings to Old Trafford. There is no one quite like Alex Ferguson; no one can compete with his straight talking, formidable character, his commitment, and overall love for Manchester United Football club. Ex-United goalkeeper Van der Sar recently said ‘there is no-one better’. And until the unlikely day when someone better does come along, Sir Alex will continue his reign at the heart of Manchester United. In my eyes, there never will be anyone better. He is just one man but is appreciated by over 100 million fans worldwide. Every single one of which, prays he will remain with us for many more years and trophies to come.

By Laura Kenyon