Ferguson reacts to Wenger’s exit: ‘One of the greatest’

Matt Stead

Sir Alex Ferguson has offered his thoughts on the upcoming resignation of Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.

Arsenal announced on Friday morning that Wenger would be leaving his post as manager after 22 years in charge.

The Frenchman’s most memorable battles came after Ferguson and his Manchester United side.

Former United defender Gary Neville declared Wenger as United’s “greatest competitor”, and Ferguson has echoed those thoughts.

“I’m really happy for Arsene Wenger,” he told ManUtd.com

“I have great respect for him and the job he has done at Arsenal. It is great testament to his talent, professionalism and determination that has been able to dedicate 22 years of his life to a job that he loves.

“In an era where football managers sometimes only last one to two seasons, it shows what an achievement it is to serve that length of time at a club the size of Arsenal.

“I’m pleased he has announced he’s leaving at this stage of the season, as he can now have send-off he truly deserves.

“He is, without doubt, one of the greatest Premier League managers and I am proud to have been a rival, a colleague and a friend to such a great man.”