Alex Ferguson Retires: Who Will Be Manchester United's Next Manager

After 26 splendid years of being the boss of Manchester United Football Club, on Thursday, manager Sir Alex Ferguson announced that he will be retiring come the end of the season.

Now 71, the Scotsman has had an illustrious career at the world's most famous football club. He won 20 top-flight titles (including 13 Premier League titles), two Champions League crowns, five FA Cups and four League Cups. His retirement truly defines the phrase "end of an era."

Rumors regarding Ferguson's retirement began to circulate following the club's golf-day on Tuesday and received massive media coverage. Ferguson is the most successful manager in the history of British soccer. He famously won the treble in 1999, making Manchester United the only English club to win the UEFA Champions League, FA Cup and the League title all in one year. 

Ferguson said, "The decision to retire is one that I have thought a great deal about and one that I have not taken lightly. 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.

He will become a director and ambassador for Manchester United. 

"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." 

Chief Executive of Manchester United David Gill refered to Ferguson as the "greatest experience" of his working life. He went on to say, "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." 

With Ferguson's retirement rumors have already began to circulate regarding his replacement. Jose Mourinho has been installed as favourite to take over from Ferguson by bookmakers, with Everton's David Moyes and Borussia Dortmund's Jurgen Klopp also in the running.

For now, here's a look at Sir Alex Ferguson's best quotes.