Tributes have flowed from all corners of the Twittersphere and real world since he made the statement this morning, from current and former players who served for and against him, stars of other sports and world leaders (well, the British PM, anyway).
Cross town arch enemy Manchester City’s captain Vincent Kompany showed his class with this Tweet.
Sir Alex, one of the best managers of all time. After 26 years of success in the game, we all owe him a tribute.
— Vincent Kompany (@VincentKompany) May 8, 2013
Fifa president Sepp Blatter, who presented Fergie with the Coach of the Year award last year, said:
Just heard Sir Alex Ferguson is retiring at end of season. His achievements in the game place him without doubt as one of the‘greats’.
— Joseph S Blatter (@SeppBlatter) May 8, 2013
One of his greatest achievements, Cristiano Ronaldo, still has close ties with Man U after leaving for Real Madrid.
Thanks for everything, Boss. twitter.com/Cristiano/stat…
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) May 8, 2013
Ladbrokes is running a book on his successor, with Everton boss David Moyes, Real’s Jose Mourinho and Borussia Dortmund’s Jurgen Klopp to top contenders.
Fergie’s off! Who are you backing to take the helm at Utd? Get involved, bet £10 get £30 now! po.st/gONhEB
— Ladbrokes (@Ladbrokes) May 8, 2013
From other sports, former England cricket captain Michael Vaughan is a fan …
Sir Alex Ferguson .. 1498 games in charge .. 894 wins… 17 missed through tough line bans…#GreatestEver
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) May 8, 2013
… and he agrees with Ladbrokes’ call.
David Moyes will definitely be appointed … Put what ever you want on it…
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) May 8, 2013
Irish golf star Rory McIlroy also paid his respects.
An end of an era today! Sir Alex Ferguson, the greatest of all time! United will have a tough time trying to replace him!
— Rory Mcilroy (@McIlroyRory) May 8, 2013
If David Cameron was going to comment on Luis Suarez he was sure to jump on this bandwagon.
Sir Alex Ferguson’s achievement at #MUFC has been exceptional. Hopefully his retirement will make life a little easier for my team #AVFC
— David Cameron (@David_Cameron) May 8, 2013
And understandably, Man U chief executive David Gill got soppy at the announcement, saying:
“I’ve had the tremendous pleasure of working very closely with Alex for 16 unforgettable years — through the treble, the double, countless trophy wins and numerous signings.
We knew that his retirement would come one day and we both have been planning for it by ensuring the quality of the squad and club structures are in first-class condition.
Alex’s vision, energy and ability have built teams — both on and off the pitch — that his successor can count on as among the best and most loyal in world sport.
The way he cares for this club, his staff and for the football family in general is something that I admire. It is a side to him that is often hidden from public view but it is something that I have been privileged to witness in the last 16 years.
What he has done for this club and for the game in general will never be forgotten. It has been the greatest experience of my working life being alongside Alex and a great honour to be able to call him a friend.”
Images via Getty