Although it’s unclear as to when Sir Alex Ferguson will step down as manager of Manchester United (and boy, won’t we all miss him), there appears to be a growing consensus that Carlos Queiroz is the ready-made replacement for the Scot. After all, he’s been part of the Old Trafford furniture for quite some time and it’s clear that the assistant coach is pretty pretty hands-on when it comes to training sessions and tactics.
The BBC report that Manchester United’s chief executive has dropped a very large hint that the man from Portugal could be Fergie’s natural successor within the next three years. SAF has confirmed that he’ll no longer be manager by this point, with promotion from within looking likely.
“We are making sure our squad is continually reviewed and improved as necessary and the age of the squad is right so that, when Alex does decide to retire, anyone taking over has a fantastic squad with the right age profile,” said Gill. “We also have an assistant manager who will be very much in the frame in Carlos Queiroz. He’s clearly a key part of our success. If you look at what Liverpool achieved in their very successful years during the ’70s and ’80s [that] was through internal appointments. Carlos is a key factor in all the success we’ve achieved over the last couple of seasons.”
Many people will barely be able to remember a time when Sir Alex Ferguson wasn’t manager of Manchester United and it’s clear that he will leave an enduring legacy at the club when he steps down. At least some continuity will be achieved if Queiroz takes over the reins, although they will stil be pretty big shoes to fill.