In a significant policy shift, Sir Alex Ferguson and the Manchester United football board have been barred from entering the team’s dressing room at Old Trafford following matches.
This decision comes after Ferguson had his lucrative ambassadorial role revoked by the club's new part-owner, INEOS, as part of a broader cost-cutting initiative. The legendary manager, who has served as a global ambassador for United since stepping down from his managerial position 11 years ago, will cease to receive his substantial salary after the current season as part of Sir Jim Ratcliffe's financial restructuring.
Reports from the Daily Mail indicate that Ferguson has been asked to refrain from entering the dressing room, reflecting a change in policy regarding who is permitted access. While Manchester United denies having imposed a direct ban on Ferguson, the club has stated there is now a "collective understanding" about access to the dressing room.
This marks a departure from a long-standing tradition at the club, where dressing room visits have been common for decades. Previous figures such as David Gill, Mike Edelson, and Sir Bobby Charlton were always welcomed to engage with players.
Ferguson reportedly learned of these changes in a face-to-face meeting with Ratcliffe, who informed him that the club could no longer sustain his annual salary. Despite this, Ferguson is expected to continue his role as a non-executive director at Old Trafford.