He came from Aberdeen to make a mark. Had he not won the F.A. Cup in 1990 against Crystal Palace, the world would have not been acquainted to the mighty Scot. Then started the war for the best football club in the world with Sir Alex leading the Red Army. Promoting more players from the youth rather than spending money only helped him stabilize the club both on and off the pitch. David Beckham, Paul Scholes, Gary Neville and others started off with a might. In 1993, the club won its 1st double winning both The Premier league and the F.A. Cup. and then the double in 1996. After that came the historic treble in 1999 where United won The Premier League, The F.A. Cup and The Champions League(for the 1st time under Ferguson). With 24 years of astonishing service to the club, now the Scot considers retiring owing to his age. Will the most adaptable club in the world be able to adapt a new manager and still continue with their mighty run? Who are the best candidates for filling in the Scot's shoes? Will they be able to keep up with Sir Alex's credibility?
5. Martin O'Neill (Aston Villa)
A healthy and well speculated replacement for the Scot, Martin O'Neill has had a powerful spell at Aston Villa . He has even beaten United in a few games over the past couple of seasons. A master tactician, he has led Villa to The English League cup final too. He has won the Premier League ‘Manager Of The Month’ award four times since he joined Aston Villa in 2006. He narrowly missed out on a Champions League spot this year and if he stays on at the club, European football may not be too far away.
4. David Moyes (Everton)
Another manager speculated to take over Manchester United after Sir Alex Ferguson hangs his boots. He has taken Everton to great heights since his appointment. He has managed to qualify for the Europa league and even qualified for the Champions League back in 2005. His squad beat Manchester United in the F.A. Cup to reach the finals against Chelsea two years ago. He has an impressive 42.41% win rate at Everton with his current crop of players and a stronger and better Manchester United squad will no doubt guarantee him a better record. He was even tipped by Sir Alex himself as his successor at United back in April this year. His wish is to manage Celtic where he played once, but the United call may be too hard to resist!
3. Carlos Queiroz (Portugal)
Currently the Portugal National coach, he assisted Sir Alex Ferguson in two separate stints at Manchester United during his career. He was, in 2005, declared as the most likely successor to Sir Alex by the gaffer himself. He certainly knows the tactics and strategies of Manchester United and is a familiar face at the club which can help the players adapt faster. His short spell at Real Madrid was mately successful as he managed to win 35 out of 59 games while at the helm. Can he be the next Portuguese import to hit Old Trafford?
2. Josep Guardiola (Barcelona)
Currently managing the best team in the world, Barcelona , Guardiola is a well deserved candidate to step into Sir Alex 's shoes. He won the treble with Barcelona in his first season as manager. His side defeated Sir Alex's in the Champions League last year to complete their historic treble. Another double this year has only strengthened his credentials. Well, Pep at Old Trafford anyone?
1. José Mourinho (Internazionale)
The most speculated replacement for Sir Alex Ferguson, "The Special One". He has ledInter to consecutive domestic league titles and has won the Champions League with two different clubs. His world-class tactics and strategies have made him the best manager in the world. He's done it with Chelsea, he's done it with Porto and he’s done it with Inter . He came, he saw, he conquered. He's Jose Mourinho .
So, are these candidates deserving of replacing Sir Alex who has won 11 domestic titles, 5 domestic cups, 4 league cups, 8 charity shields, 2 champions league cups, 1 UEFA cup winners' cup, 1 UEFA super cup, 1 Intercontinental cup and 1 FIFA Club world cup which tallies to a total of 34 trophies which makes him the most successful manager at United in terms of trophies? Time will only tell.
-PRANAV MUKUL
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