Sir Alex Ferguson: Wife's Sister's Death Prompted Retirement from Manchester United

Sir Alex Ferguson has disclosed that the death of his wife Cathy's sister, Bridget, was the pivotal event that led to his decision to retire from managing Manchester United. Ferguson, now 84, made the announcement in May 2013, concluding his 27-year tenure with a 13th Premier League title.

In his new book, "Games of My Life," Ferguson explained that he had not been contemplating retirement until Bridget's passing in October 2012. He described the loss as a "hammer blow" for his wife, Lady Cathy, noting their exceptionally close bond as siblings. Ferguson stated that Bridget's death "changed everything."

Ferguson recounted how he maintained his decision to leave private until February 2013, when former United CEO David Gill informed him that he too was retiring. Ferguson managed to keep his emotions in check while informing his coaching staff and players at the club's Carrington training ground. However, he admitted that upon returning to his office and closing the door, he broke down in tears, recognizing that his time as manager was over.

"I just sat at my desk and cried," Ferguson wrote. "I knew then it was over. I'd not be taking this team to Wembley or to European games and I'd not be sending a team out to win a cup or a league."

He recalled the quiet moments before a match against Swansea City four days later, sitting with masseur Rod Thornley and reflecting on his impending departure. Thornley expressed confidence that Ferguson would return, but Ferguson was resolute.

Lady Cathy, described by Ferguson as his "bedrock," died in October 2023. The couple, who met in 1964 and married in 1966, had three sons, 12 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. In a 2021 documentary, Lady Cathy shared her initial impression of Ferguson as a "thug" before they began dating, recounting a simple cinema date where he ate all the liquorice sweets.

Upon his retirement in 2013, Ferguson publicly acknowledged his wife's crucial role, stating, "My wife Cathy has been the key figure throughout my career, providing a bedrock of both stability and encouragement. Words are not enough to express what this has meant to me."