• Premier League

Ferguson: I turned down Chelsea in 2003

ESPN staff
October 2, 2013
Sir Alex Ferguson gives his first interview since leaving Manchester United


Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed he rejected the chance to become Chelsea manager when Roman Abramovich took over at Stamford Bridge.

Speaking on American breakfast television on Wednesday, Ferguson claimed he was contacted by an agent acting on behalf of the Blues owner in 2003.

"They approached me when Abramovich first took over the club," Ferguson revealed. "I said no chance."

Ferguson also ruled out a return to the United hotseat, saying the club is in good hands with David Moyes. But a rocky start to the season has seen Ferguson's odds on a return slashed.

"I'm not interested in managing again or getting myself worked up about Manchester United's results," Ferguson said.

"David will be fine. He's a good manager. You would be throwing your money down the drain if you put any money on me coming back as a manager.

"I made my decision. The timing was perfect. There is no way back for me now.

"I've got a new life. I want to go the Kentucky Derby and the US Masters, the Melbourne Cup. I want to visit vineyards in Tuscany and France."

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