London: Alex Ferguson, the most successful manager in Manchester United’s history, underwent emergency surgery Saturday for a brain haemorrhage, the club said.
“The procedure has gone very well but he needs a period of intensive care to optimise his recovery,” a statement said. “His family request privacy in this matter.”
Manchester United captain for the current season Michael Carrick tweeted: “Absolutely devastated to hear about Sir Alex being unwell in hospital. All my thoughts and prayers are with him and his family. Be strong boss.”
The 76-year-old was Man United’s manager from 1986 to 2013, winning the Champions League twice, the Premier League 13 times and five FA Cups. He was knighted in 1999, the year United achieved a treble by winning those three trophies in one season.
Ferguson made his managerial reputation in his native Scotland with Aberdeen, winning three Scottish League titles and the European Cup Winners’ Cup.
After taking Scotland to the 1986 World Cup following the death of Jock Stein, Ferguson joined United in November 1986 after Ron Atkinson was sacked. It took three and a half years to achieve his first success with them, the FA Cup title in 1990.
Ferguson retired from his Man U managerial role in 2013. However, he remained a regular visitor to Old Trafford and was there last Sunday to make a presentation to old rival Arsene Wenger on the Arsenal manager’s last appearance at the ground before he leaves the London club.
Arch rivals Manchester City were quick to tweet: “Everyone at Manchester City wishes Sir Alex Ferguson a full and speedy recovery after his surgery.”
Managers Sam Allardyce of Everton and Southampton’s Mark Hughes, a former United player under the Scot, also added their best wishes following the first Premier League game after the news broke.
Others who wished the legendary Fergie were his former students David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo. Both tweeted wishing Ferguson a speedy recovery. Beckham said, “Keep fighting Boss. Sending prayers and love to Cathy (Ferguson’s and the whole family.”
Ronaldo who is expected to play a key role in the Clasico said: “My thoughts and prayers are with you my dear friend. Be strong, Boss!”
Ferguson managed Manchester United from 1986 to 2013 winning 13 Premier League, two Champions League and five FA Cup titles
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