Sir Alex Ferguson Pays Touching Tribute As Arsene Wenger Announces His Departure From Arsenal

Arsene Wenger's epic reign at Arsenal Football Club is set to come to an end this summer as his departure was confirmed today, and Alex Ferguson has reacted to the news.
 
Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger
Sir Alex Ferguson has paid a touching tribute to departing Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.
The legendary former Manchester United boss had a famously fiery relationship with Frenchman during their days as managerial rivals.
But Ferguson has nothing but admiration for Wenger, saying he was "proud to have been a rival, a colleague and a friend to such a great man."
Arsenal announced on Friday morning that Wenger will leave the club at the end of the season after 22 years in charge.
"I am really happy for Arsene Wenger," said Ferguson. "I have great respect for him and for the job he has done at Arsenal.
"It is great testament to his talent, professionalism and determination that has been able to dedicate 22 years of his life to a job that he loves.
"In an era where football managers sometimes only last one or two seasons, it shows what an achievement it is to serve that length of time at a club the size of Arsenal.
"I am pleased that he has announced he is leaving at this stage of the season, as he can now have the send-off that he truly deserves.
"He is, without doubt, one of the greatest Premier League managers and I am proud to have been a rival, a colleague and a friend to such a great man."