Home » Football » Premier League

‘Bridget’s death changed everything’: Sir Alex Ferguson speaks for the first time on his decision to quit Man United because of his grief-stricken wife – and how he broke down after telling his players

The Scot says he cried in his office after telling his players and staff that he would be leaving the club after 27 years in 2013. Ferguson, now 84, won a 13th and final Premier League title that May.

By LUKE POWER · Daily Mail

Published: Thursday, 8 October 2026 at 7:56 AM

Key Things to Know

Sir Alex Ferguson decided to retire from Manchester United in 2013 following the death of his sister-in-law, Bridget.
Ferguson broke down in tears alone in his office after informing his players and staff about his departure.
The former manager won his 13th Premier League title in May 2013 to conclude his 27-year managerial tenure.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed that the October 2012 death of his wife's sister, Bridget, prompted his retirement from Manchester United in 2013. In his book, Games of My Life, the former manager explains that the loss heavily impacted his wife, Lady Cathy Ferguson. Ferguson also shares that he broke down in tears at his desk after announcing his departure to the players and coaching staff at Carrington.

Ferguson retired following 27 years at Old Trafford, concluding his tenure by securing his 13th Premier League title in May 2013. Former United CEO David Gill was among the few individuals informed of the decision in advance. Lady Cathy Ferguson, whom Sir Alex married in 1966, passed away in October 2023 at the age of 84.

Read the full article on Daily Mail