Ferguson, who will step down at the end of the season, saw his contract terminated by new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe as part of a cost-cutting initiative. Mourinho, currently managing Fenerbahce, was asked about the decision ahead of Thursday night’s Europa League clash against United in Istanbul.
“My relationship with Sir Alex was incredible,” Mourinho shared. “In my upcoming Netflix documentary, you’ll understand more about why I have so much respect for him. As for the ambassadorial role, I don’t know the specifics. What really matters is that Sir Alex has the love and respect of every Manchester United fan worldwide. That’s far more important than any position or the money he might earn.”
Reflecting on his own time at United, Mourinho added, “Since leaving in December 2018, I haven’t spent a moment dwelling on the club. I always wish them the best. I left with a positive feeling towards the club and the fans, and while I don’t enjoy seeing them struggle, I don’t spend time thinking about what could have been.”
Ferguson took on the ambassadorial role in 2013 after retiring as United’s manager. However, according to reports from The Athletic, Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s company Ineos opted to end the agreement in an effort to cut costs at the club. The contract, reportedly worth over £2 million a year, had been in place since October 2013.
