Sir Alex Ferguson has been stripped of his $2.6 million pounds a year salary as a global ambassador for Manchester United. AFP Photo

Paul Kennedy

In business, people rarely get to the top by being Mr Nice Guy. Those in the upper echelons of power often have pretty tough decisions to make that must come from the head and not the heart.

I’m sure Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Chairman, CEO and founder of INEOS chemical group, has made plenty of tough decisions in his career that have led to his success and extreme wealth (somewhere in the region of US$39 billion according to figures released in 2023).

Since he became a minority shareholder at Manchester United the decisions have come thick and fast, and are certainly not to everyone’s liking.

A reported 250 United employees have been made redundant since Ratcliffe joined the fold as the club looks to claw back $13m a year.

Their average salaries were about $50,000 per year.

Another huge saving he has made has certainly caused a lot more controversy.

Now regularly readers of this column will know that despite being a Liverpool supporter and an avid hater of United, I do think Sir Alex Ferguson is the greatest ever manager the game has seen.

I have nothing but the utmost respect for the fiery Scot and truly believe that what he achieved during 26 years at the helm will never be matched.

Earlier this month it was revealed the club has called time on his ambassadorial duties for which they were paying him somewhere in the region of $2.6 million a year.

“Such a lack of respect,” former player Eric Cantona screamed. “It’s totally scandalous. Sir Alex Ferguson should be able to do anything he wants at the club until the day he dies.”

Thing is Eric, he can do anything he wants at the club until the day he dies, he just won’t be getting paid such a ridiculous amount of money for the privilege.

United last month announced net losses for the fifth year in a row. Their stadium has seen far better days and their training facilities are lightyears behind those of other top clubs.

On the pitch they are a shadow of their former selves and the way the season has started, it is highly unlikely they will qualify for the incredibly lucrative Champions League.

Sir Jim needs to desperately cut costs. It has also been reported that corporate credit cards and chauffeur-driven cars for executives have also been withdrawn.

I even read a story claiming they have cancelled the staff Christmas party!

Sorry Sir Alex, times are hard and needs must. The gravy train has ground to a halt and it’s time to get off. VNS