Sir Alex Ferguson (84) unwell at Old Trafford and taken to hospital as a precaution

©picture alliance / U. Hufnagel | Ulrich Hufnagel

The legendary former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson became unwell at Old Trafford on Sunday and was taken to the hospital by ambulance as a precaution. This happened more than an hour before the start of the Premier League topper of the 35th match day against Liverpool.

Ferguson is a familiar face in the stands at home matches of "his" club. As such, he arrived at the stadium early on Sunday. But around 3 p.m. (the match was scheduled to start at 4:30 p.m.), the 84-year-old Scot suddenly felt unwell. Medical services at the scene administered initial care and took him to a nearby hospital for check-ups. Club officials described it as a precautionary measure; after all, there was no acute emergency.

Manchester United won the game 3-2 over arch-rival Liverpool. Current manager Michael Carrick, who worked with Sir Alex Ferguson for a long time as a player, heard the news about Ferguson just before the game and was "touched". "I haven't had an update yet, but we hope he's well. We wish him all the best and hope the result of our match can give him a boost," he said after the game. United fans and players showed support online with #GetWellSirAlex.

Ferguson survived a severe brain hemorrhage in 2018 and made a full recovery. He has only suffered occasional short-term memory loss since then, he said himself in a Netflix documentary. This new incident does not appear to be related to his previous health problems. The club expects him to return home soon and recover. "Sir Alex is an icon; his health is paramount," a spokesman responded.

©picture alliance / U. Hufnagel | Ulrich Hufnagel