Legendary Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson might have achieved enviable success that might not be replicated in decades to come, but even he carries regrets.
More than a decade after stepping down, Ferguson has revealed the one decision that still weighs heavily on him, and it came on one of his most glorious nights.
Sir Alex Ferguson reveals his biggest regrets from 2008 UCL
The Scotsman guided United to Champions League glory in 2008, beating Chelsea in a dramatic final in Moscow. But behind the celebrations, one choice left a lasting scar.
Speaking to MUTV, Ferguson admitted his biggest regret was leaving out Park Ji-sung from the squad that night.
“To win the European Cup is fantastic,” he recalled, as quoted by Tribuna. “It was a really great bunch of players with a great attitude. A strong squad.”
But then came the confession.
“My problem in the 2008 final — maybe I even regret it to this day — was I left Park Ji-sung out completely,” he said. He’d played such a great role. That’s the problem with finals. No player deserves to be left out. No player deserved to miss out that night.”
For Park, the pain was real. He found out he wasn’t in the matchday squad only when he saw his shirt missing from the dressing room.
Park Ji-Sung’s career and legacy at Manchester United
The South Korean midfielder was one of Ferguson’s most trusted players. He joined United in 2005 and stayed until 2012.
Known for his tireless work ethic, tactical intelligence, and big-game performances, Park chalked several milestones during his time at Old Trafford, including becoming the first Asian player to captain United in a Champions League match, against Lille on October 18, 2005.
He played 205 games for the Red Devils, scored 27 goals, and won four Premier League titles, plus that Champions League crown in 2008.