SIR ALEX FERGUSON arrived at the San Mames stadium ahead of the Europa League final – marking his final away day as Manchester United’s global ambassador
Ferguson, 83, showed is support for Man Utd ahead of their European heavyweight bout with Tottenham in Bilbao.
– EUROPA LEAGUE FINAL LIVE
Sir Alex, who managed United for 26 years, has been kept on the books at as an ambassador since his exit as boss in 2013.
But as part of new minority owner ‘s brutal cost-cutting measures, .
The legendary Scottish manager had to wave goodbye to a £2.16m-per-year salary as a result, with the decision kicking in at the end of the current season.
Which means his attendance at the final tonight is his last away game as a club ambassador on the payroll.
Sir Alex had certainly been enjoying his trip to the Basque Country, stopping by Bilbao’s San Mames stadium before the match to visit Athletic Club officials.
He even took the time to sign a match ball and pennant in the hallways of the ground from Athletic’s 2011/12 victory over United in the Europa League round of 16.
Ferguson led United to 13 league titles, two Champions Leagues, five FA Cups and four League Cups.
But he can rest assured that his ambassadorial axing wasn’t personal, but instead part of put in place by Ratcliffe and his Ineos team.
The billionaire Brit and his company cut costs by announcing at the Premier League giants.
While other more marginal financial savings have been made by,and stopping access toand.
United have the opportunity boost their dire financial situation with a victory over Spurs in Bilbao, a win that wouldn’t just earn them a major trophy, but also a place in the .
A place amongst Europe’s elite since their drop in form over the past few years.
Despite the mass cost-cutting, United announcedin Marchin the near future.
Man Utd vs Spurs – Europa League final: for Bilbao clash
