Ferguson is Manchester United, boss of every coach — Mourinho

Abdullateef Fowewe

José Mourinho has affirmed that the legendary Scottish manager, Sir Alex Ferguson “is Manchester United” and remains “the boss of every coach.”

The comments came in an official Manchester United video released to mark the 40th anniversary of Ferguson’s appointment as manager on 6 November 1986.

In the tribute, which also featured Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham, Wayne Rooney, Arsène Wenger and others, Mourinho said, “Sir Alex was always our boss – the boss of every coach.”

Asked about Ferguson’s greatest contribution to the club, he added, “I think he is Manchester United.”

The praise carries extra weight given the history between the two men.

Mourinho and Ferguson were fierce rivals during the Portuguese manager’s first spell at Chelsea, trading barbs and competing intensely for Premier League titles.

Despite the on-pitch battles, mutual respect endured.

Mourinho later managed Manchester United himself between 2016 and 2018, and has long referred to Ferguson as “the boss.”

Ferguson transformed United during his 26-year reign from 1986–2013, winning 38 trophies, including 13 Premier League titles and two UEFA Champions League crowns.

He turned the club into a global powerhouse and remains one of the most successful and influential managers in football history.