PLAYERS WHO have played for Manchester United in the last 25 years would in all probability hail Alex Ferguson as one of the greatest Manchester United managers, in fact the greatest that they have played for. He has been at the helm of the club for 25 years, with his 25th anniversary game this Saturday against Sunderland. It would be a great occasion for a person, who has devoted the best 25 years of his life for Manchester United. The players have responded him with some great victories. He is a living legend for United fans.

After he took over the club in 1986, he has been able to take the club to greater heights. He has managed the club for around 1,409 matches, as per Daily Telegraph, and he has been victorious in 836 of these matches, which makes up a winning percentage of 59.33, which is phenomenal, as he has witnessed the clubs' up and down in his career of 25 years.

Ferguson has won the prestigious Premier league title 12 times during his career, which is an astonishing feat, along with 5 FA Cups, Champions league titles too and various other trophies too. Many people may credit the players for the title, but it has to be remembered it was Ferguson who trained these players in and out. It was his crucial tactics that won them the title. If it was only for the players, then he should not have won the title after their golden players such as Eric Contana, David Beckham, Neville brothers, no longer served the club. But, still they have been winning major championships. The recent example can be of the Premier League title, which they won last year.  

Manchester United should also thank their football academy which produces great players. Some of the examples for it are David Beckham, Ryan Giggs, and Neville, etc. They were some of the best players that Manchester United ever had. Ryan Giggs, still plays for Manchester United.

Ferguson is very good at eyeing young talent and trading them to Manchester United. Hernandez has been a testimonial to the fact, as he has been scoring goals to the galore and he was also brought for a low price, which makes it an awesome business. He may be old now, but his passion for the game is second to none. It is evident from his reaction, when his team scores an important goal. He would be seen jumping up and down in joy and running along the touch line too.  

One has to understand that his time is coming to an end shortly as he is already aged 69 now. There are several talks doing rounds as to who would be his successor. Whoever it may be, he would have a tough time to fill into his big shoes.