- Ferguson led Man United to 38 trophies in a 26-year reign before retiring in 2013
- The legendary manager became a global ambassador after his retirement
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Rio Ferdinand believes Ineos are ‘sending a message’ to everyone at Manchester United following their decision to terminate Sir Alex Ferguson’s lucrative ambassadorial contract.
Ferguson became a global club ambassador and club director after stepping down as manager in 2013 after a 26-year reign. He was reportedly paid £2.16 million a year to serve as a global ambassador for the club, in a deal that has been in place for more than a decade.
However, according to The Athletic, this agreement will end after a personal meeting with Red Devils minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
The move is part of a cost-cutting measure by Ratcliffe since Ineos took over the Premier League giants’ football operations.
Ferdinand, who spent 12 years at Old Trafford, believes the move proves ‘no one is safe’ at the club.
Rio Ferdinand believes the decision to terminate Sir Alex Ferguson’s ambassadorial contract is a sign that no one is safe at the club
The legendary Scottish manager received more than 2 million euros per year from the club after his retirement in 2013
Sir Jim Ratcliffe informed Ferguson in a personal conversation that the club could no longer continue with the payments
‘If Sir Alex can be taken out, NO ONE is SAFE [Man United] – everyone can get it now. Ineos sends a message to EVERYONE in the club?!?’ He wrote on X.
It was claimed that the termination of the agreement was handled amicably, with Ferguson remaining as non-executive director and welcome to attend matches.
Ferguson was pictured with Man United’s hierarchy during the club’s final Premier League match before the international break against Aston Villa.
Ratcliffe was present for the 0-0 draw, ahead of a planned board meeting last week. Ratcliffe and his Ineos team began a thorough financial review after taking a quarter stake in the club earlier this year.
Mail Sport revealed this led to around 250 redundancies.
The club has aimed to create a leaner business and ensure that the club maximizes the amount it can spend on its playing team.
The decision to ax Ferguson’s role was criticized by much of the club’s fanbase on social media, many of whom expressed their dismay. Some supporters were also quick to give meaning to Ferdinand’s post.
Some United fans believe Ferdinand’s comments are a warning to under-fire boss Erik ten Hag
Many believe the former defender was referring to controversial Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag, who has weathered a media storm admirably following his side’s poor start to the season.
The Dutchman looks set to lead his side in this weekend’s Premier League match against Brentford before they travel to Istanbul to take on Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce.
United then have a few tough league matches against West Ham and Chelsea before the next international break starts in November.