Exclusive interview with Sir Alex Ferguson: The Manchester United icon shares the key to their 1999 Champions League victory against Bayern Munich.

Sir Alex Ferguson Reflects on Unforgettable Manchester United Legacy

As Manchester United gears up for the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD1 match, the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson took a moment to reflect on his remarkable tenure at the club. In an exclusive interview with TNT Sports, the iconic manager spoke about the “unbelievable perseverance” displayed by his various squads during his 26-year reign.

Ferguson, who led United to an astonishing 13 Premier League titles and two UEFA Champions League triumphs in 1999 and 2008, shared insights into the mindset that defined his teams. The 1999 Champions League final against Bayern Munich remains etched in the memories of fans, with Ferguson’s tactical genius shining through as his side snatched victory from the jaws of defeat.

“It’s easy to say this, but the homework won us the game,” Ferguson explained, recalling his meticulous preparation for the clash against Bayern. He noted a recurring theme in the German side’s tactics, particularly their tendency to substitute wide players in crucial matches.

“I had to gamble on my midfield,” he continued. “I wanted to ensure we had passing ability, so I decided to put David Beckham in midfield alongside Nicky Butt. Nicky did all sorts of jobs, with Ryan Giggs wide right and Jesper Blomqvist wide left.”

Despite a lacklustre first half, Ferguson’s tactical adjustments paid off. “The minute they made the substitution, I went three in the middle and three up front,” he said. “I brought on Teddy Sheringham and told him to play up top on the right centre-back, trying to pull the right-back in. It was amazing how we turned it around.”

That unforgettable night in Barcelona epitomised the mentality that became synonymous with Ferguson’s United. His teams were renowned for their resilience, often bouncing back from near misses in the Premier League. Since the league’s reformation in 1992, six of United’s titles came in the season following a second-place finish, with another won after a third-place finish.

Ferguson praised the “unbelievable” mindset of his players, emphasising the grit and determination that he instilled throughout his tenure. “The perseverance, they never give in,” he remarked. “That’s a quality that great teams always had. Isn’t it amazing? Six times second, and twice on goal difference, and we won the league the next year.”

He reflected on the evolution of his squads, from the tough-as-nails team of 1994/95 to the star-studded lineup of 2008 featuring the likes of Carlos Tevez, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Wayne Rooney. “The 94/95 team was basically an English team, while by 2008, we had quite a few foreign players. The game had changed, but every foreign player adapted right away.”

Ferguson acknowledged the global stature of Manchester United, stating, “People say it’s the biggest club in the world. It’s a club that probably has one billion fans worldwide. It’s that kind of club. It’s got a romance about it.”

Consistency: The Cornerstone of Ferguson’s Success

In an era where managerial tenures are often short-lived, Ferguson’s 26 years at the helm of United is a remarkable feat. He believes that the club’s long-term commitment to him was crucial to their success.

When asked about managing a star-studded squad and whether each player required different treatment, Ferguson chuckled, “Everyone thought Robbo (Bryan Robson) was my son because he’d never get criticised. But the most important thing for me as a manager is to be consistent.”

He elaborated on his approach, stating, “The players, the staff, everybody recognised the man that came through the door every morning. The same principles, the same discipline code, the same attitude towards staff. I never changed.”

Ferguson’s consistency undoubtedly contributed to his status as the club’s most decorated manager, amassing over 30 trophies during his illustrious career. However, since his retirement in 2013, Manchester United has yet to reclaim the Premier League title, leaving fans yearning for a return to the glory days of Ferguson’s reign.