Legendary football coach Sir Alex Ferguson shared the personal motivations behind his decision to retire as Manchester United manager in 2013.
Contrary to widespread assumptions that his departure was due to age he was 71 at the time Ferguson disclosed on Ally McCoist's podcast, "Ally's Social Club," that his retirement was primarily driven by family considerations.
Ferguson explained that he chose to step down to support his wife, Cathy, following the death of her sister. He recounted, “Cathy’s sister had died in the previous October and she was lost. She was definitely lost so at Christmas I said to her ‘Look, I’m going to retire at the end of the season’.” His decision was met with relief and delight from Cathy, who had devoted much of her life to supporting him throughout his illustrious career.
Ferguson noted, “[She was] looking after me because of my job… bringing the kids up. When I said I was going to retire, she was delighted and I knew that. I could tell by her body language.”
Comments