The legendary Sir Alex Ferguson is poised to make a remarkable return to management, over a decade after his retirement from Manchester United. The iconic Scot will take charge of a team in Giuseppe Rossi’s farewell match at Fiorentina’s Stadio Artemio Franchi on 22 March 2025.
Ferguson’s illustrious career at Old Trafford came to an end in 2013 after he guided the Red Devils to their 20th league title, capping off an extraordinary 37-trophy haul during his tenure. Now, at the age of 83, the managerial maestro is set to don his tracksuit once more, answering the call from a player who, despite limited appearances for United, clearly left a lasting impression.
A Surprising Choice
Eyebrows have been raised at Ferguson’s decision to return for Rossi, a player who made fewer than 20 appearances for United. However, the Italian striker’s reverence for his former mentor shines through in his words:
“Ferguson will be there as a coach. He was my first coach, I signed when I was 17. I only did three years with him and played little, but he immediately said yes and this shows what kind of person he is. I did little at United but he treats me like Cristiano Ronaldo, who has scored 1,000 goals.”
This heartfelt tribute underscores the profound impact Ferguson had on even those players who didn’t become Old Trafford regulars.
Rossi’s Journey
Rossi’s time at United may have been brief, but it was certainly memorable. The forward netted four goals in 14 senior appearances, including a dream debut goal in the Premier League against Sunderland. After loan spells at Newcastle United and Parma, Rossi found his feet at Villarreal, where he became a prolific goalscorer with 82 strikes in 192 matches.
The farewell match in Florence is a fitting tribute to Rossi’s career, which saw him ply his trade for several Italian clubs including Fiorentina, Genoa, and SPAL. The event promises to be a star-studded affair, featuring Serie A legends such as Luca Toni, Antonio Cassano, Sebastien Frey, Borja Valero, and Gabriel Batistuta.
Ferguson’s Post-Retirement Exploits
This isn’t the first time Ferguson has answered the call since hanging up his hairdryer. In 2019, he marked the 20th anniversary of United’s historic treble by leading a team of club legends to a resounding 5-0 victory over their Bayern Munich counterparts. The result proved that Ferguson’s tactical acumen and winning mentality remain as sharp as ever.
A Testament to Ferguson’s Legacy
Ferguson’s willingness to return to the dugout for Rossi speaks volumes about his character and the bonds he forged with his players. It’s a reminder of the personal touch that made him not just a great manager, but a father figure to many who played under him.
As Manchester United continue to navigate the post-Ferguson era, this brief return to management serves as a poignant reminder of the Scot’s enduring influence on the game. For one night in Florence, the football world will once again witness the magic of Sir Alex Ferguson, as he guides a team one last time in honour of a player whose career he helped shape.
This unexpected reunion between Ferguson and Rossi promises to be a nostalgic and emotional affair, celebrating not just the end of one player’s journey, but the lasting impact of football’s greatest manager.
