Last game at OT this weekend, I can understand the announcement now in that respect

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/22417105

4 days ago he wasn't leaving. What changed

It's going to be Gollum

I too thought it was strange timing, but i think the rumours in the press forced the hand of united.

Whoever replaces Fergie is on a hiding to nothing and will be constantly compared to the man and will be working in his shadow.

I think it is Moyes, maybe phil neville as assistant. Fergie upstairs?

It makes very little sense that 4 days ago he was saying he was staying to this, however the signs were there when he said 'Everything is set up for one big-signing'. How often does he ever talk about his business?!

Also, I believe with his surgery, they've told him he would need rest etc and at the age of 71, his wife, family members have talked him into doing what's best for him. He's not leaving Manchester United, just going upstairs. Think the compromise was made.

Better than announcing at the beginning of the season like he did last time, which greatly affected the players.

4 days ago he wasn't leaving. What changed

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He never said he's going to be the manager though, it's been announced that he's going to be a director/ambassador of the club.

I don't think it was planned.

I think he wants Jose to get the job, but he isn't going to be available for much longer with Chelsea sniffing around, so he had to step aside now.

I don't think it was planned.

I think he wants Jose to get the job, but he isn't going to be available for much longer with Chelsea sniffing around, so he had to step aside now.
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I don't think Sir Alex would have ever moved aside for anyone if he wasn't ready to move on himself. There would always be high-calibre Managers available if and when he retired.

"There would always be high-calibre Managers available if and when he retired."

Really? The 2 managers that have won 4 of the last 10 CLs and are considered the most successful managers of recent times are moving clubs this summer, we sadly will not be getting either.

I have an awful feeling there's more to this hip op than meets the eye.

I was actually quite sad when I heard the news. Blimey, this must nearly feel like a death in the family for you guys?

A fair few of us have never known 'life with Sir Alex' it's going to be a bit of a shock.

I wonder how the price of your shares will react on the Stock markets, strong quarterly results followed by Fergie Retiring

chrisdgooner - putting the mental in mental strength since 1872! (U1084)
posted 9 minutes ago
I was actually quite sad when I heard the news. Blimey, this must nearly feel like a death in the family for you guys?
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Yes.

Haven't particularly liked Fergie over the years but have always had ultimate respect for his numerous achievements and sheer will to win. To have gone on for so long and to constantly adapt to the changing game has been quite incredible. End of a footballing era today.

Darkphoenix Moyes has done very well at Everton but to step up to the plate and replace Fergie? Surely you'll try and gazump the Mourinho deal? He has a massive hard on for your club I reckon and seems to love Sir Alex.