Happy birthday, Sir Alex!

With the Scot celebrating a landmark occasion, we asked supporters to join us in sending our best wishes to our legendary former manager.

More than 10,000 of you have already got involved, with messages coming in from more than 150 different countries across the globe. Some have recalled a chance meeting with the boss, others a touching letter he sent them, others simply their favourite memory of the Sir Alex Ferguson era at United, and many of you explained how the Govan-born great has acted as a source of inspiration with his determination, values and unparalleled success.

Throughout today, tributes will be paid to Sir Alex from across the football world. Here on ManUtd.com and our Official App, we'll look at some of the best messages we've been sent by supporters over the last week.

And there's still time for you to post a personal birthday message to Sir Alex through our special online form.

One player wishing Sir Alex many happy returns will be Cristiano Ronaldo. Our current no.7 and his old boss were reunited recently as part of TeamViewer's Inside View series, and the Portuguese star recalled one particular story to convey exactly why he has so much admiration for the boss.

“I always say that for me he's like a father for me in football," Cristiano began.

“Probably he doesn't remember, but I will say it because it's a beautiful story. One day, my father was in hospital, and I was so emotional, very low. And I spoke with him and he said: ‘Cristiano, go there for two or three days.’ We had difficult games and I was a key player in that moment.

“He said: ‘It will be tough because we have difficult games, but I understand your situation and I’ll leave you [out] and you can go and see your father.’ For me, these are the most important things – apart from winning Champions Leagues, to win the Premier League, to win cups and stuff. So I have to appreciate him, because what he said to me, he always did. I have to appreciate that.”

MESSAGES FROM FANS

We've already been inundated with touching messages from fans all across the world. Here's a small selection:

“Dear Sir Alex, all my best wishes for your 80th birthday. Back in 1986, I was an eight-year-old boy watching in awe as Maradona introduced himself and made an everlasting impact on a football fan. Little did I know back then, that the most important thing to ever happen in my football world, happened the same year. You became the manager of Manchester United, and changed everything. You gave me and my father (who has supported United since the 60s) so many great moments to share - and I thank you for it. All my best, from my family to yours - and happy birthday.”
Tommy Bruvik, Norway

“Happy birthday Sir Alex! I must make sure you know I cannot thank you enough for what you have given my dad & me. We watched together the Treble-winning season ending in the Champions League final, watching together at 3am in Singapore in May 1999. In October 1999, my dad passed on. The joy you gave him that moment will forever be in my heart. For it was that one moment that bonded my dad & me forever. Thank you and Happy birthday. Bless you.”
Michael Liu, Singapore

"When I was diagnosed with a life-threatening disease at the age of 9, you kindly wrote a letter to me and encouraged me to listen to all of the advice from the doctors whilst saying everyone at the club wished me the best. 23 years on, I never lost faith and this year I was accepted into medical school with a same day call-back at the ripe age of 31 years old. You helped me gain the courage and resilience to never give in. Thank you."
Kieran Chumun, United Kingdom

“I run the Edinburgh Reds & have been very fortunate over the years to be in the company of the great man. Most recently I had a chat with him in Aberdeen, at the unveiling of the new Denis Law statue. In typical SAF style he said to me, not for the first time... 'What’s the best thing to come out of Edinburgh? The M8 motorway to Glasgow!' Happy 80th birthday, legend!”
Peter Wood, United Kingdom

“Happy birthday to the greatest manager to walk the earth. Without you, I would have never have fallen in love with this beautiful game. Cheers to you 🥂”
Christopher Adomako, Ghana

“Many happy returns, Sir Alex. 80 years is a great achievement. Much love from Northern Ireland. I grew up in tough times but every United game was a welcome distraction, especially when we won most of them! Hope you have a great day with friends and family.”
Stuart Meyer, United Kingdom

“Dear Sir Alex Ferguson, you are the greatest manager that the world has ever seen. You have brought us, the fans, immense pleasure and happiness after winning so many trophies and made us proud and happy. I have had a superb childhood watching the games and had the honour of attending three matches in Romania (Dinamo 1-2 United, Otelul 0-2 United and CFR Cluj 1-2 United). With this occasion for your 80th anniversary, I would like to wish you a happy birthday, lots of health, happiness, and power to help the actual team with precious advice and give confidence and inspiration to the young lads. Happy birthday Sir Alex!”
Gheorghe Antonio Nicolae, Romania

“The picture that sticks in my mind is against Sheffield Wednesday. Brian Kidd on his knees and the big smile and Sir Alex doing his little dance. Have a happy birthday and may there be many more. God bless you, Sir Alex.”
Michael Denwood, Spain

“Happy birthday Sir Alex, you have given me some of the best memories of my life and I hope you enjoy this special day with your family and friends. Best regards from Iceland.”
Fannar Emil Jónsson, Iceland

“Sir Alex, thank you for sacrificing all those hours away from your family to give Manchester United and their supporters the best and most successful period of time, not only in club history but in English football. You gave millions of people around the world many happy memories with their families. Thank you and enjoy the day with your family. Happy birthday!"
The Kelly Family, United Kingdom

You can send your birthday messages, memories and anecdotes to Sir Alex here.