Sport

I was the first pick! Carlos Queiroz claims he was asked to be Sir Alex’s successor at Manchester United

By Tim Hyde

Former Manchester United number two Carlos Queiroz claims he was asked to be Sir Alex Ferguson’s successor.

Before leaving Old Trafford for the second time in 2008 – to manage Portugal – Queiroz says he declined the opportunity to succeed Sir Alex.

However the Former Real Madrid manager has no regrets about leaving Sir Alex’s side as the move enabled him to spend time with family and friends.

Queiroz told Portuguese publication Record: “I declined the opportunity to succeed Ferguson.

“When I left that time (to manage the Portuguese national team) I declined the Manchester United opportunity to succeed Sir Alex Ferguson.

“No way (does he regret it). I’ll never regret that decision. And I can explain to you that the reasons twofold.

“One, because I could to go to the first World Cup held in Africa, moreover near the place where I was born and manage the squad of my country. 

“Another, because after almost 16 years out of Portugal, this was the opportunity to be back closer to my family and friends.”

Sir Alex didn’t retire until five years later, in May 2013.

Picture courtesy of RTP, with thanks.

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