Sir Alex Ferguson has officially retired as Manchester United manager after 27 years in charge and 49 trophies over the journey.
The Red Devils confirmed the news on Wednesday morning, with Ferguson to move into a director and ambassador role after winning the league 13 times, the UEFA Champions League twice and FA Cup five times.
“The decision to retire is one that I have thought a great deal about and one that I have not taken lightly,” Ferguson said.
“It is the right time. It was important to me to leave an organisation in the strongest possible shape and I believe I have done so.
“The quality of this league winning squad, and the balance of ages within it, bodes well for continued success at the highest level whilst the structure of the youth set-up will ensure that the long-term future of the club remains a bright one.
“Our training facilities are amongst the finest in global sport and our home Old Trafford is rightfully regarded as one of the leading venues in the world.
“Going forward, I am delighted to take on the roles of both director and ambassador for the club. With these activities, along with my many other interests, I am looking forward to the future, providing a bedrock of both stability and encouragement. Words are not enough to express what this has meant to me.”
