A forthcoming documentary on Sir Alex Ferguson, set to premiere on BBC iPlayer this Boxing Day, delves into the iconic manager’s extraordinary career and does not shy away from revealing some of his more controversial moments—including an incident where he reduced Cristiano Ronaldo to tears.
The Infamous Hairdryer Treatment
The documentary, titled “Sir Alex,” chronicles the life and achievements of the legendary Manchester United manager, who led the club to 13 Premier League titles and two Champions League triumphs. Among the many stories shared, one stands out: Ferguson’s infamous “hairdryer treatment” aimed at a young Cristiano Ronaldo.
Former United defender Rio Ferdinand recalls the fiery moment: “Cristiano hadn’t played well, and the manager tore into him. He said, ‘Who do you think you are? You’re here trying to prove you’re a superstar.’ I remember Ronaldo in tears, and I thought, ‘This manager doesn’t care who you are.’”
A Father Figure
Despite the harsh criticism, Ronaldo flourished under Ferguson’s guidance, eventually leaving United as one of the best players in the world. He has since referred to Ferguson as a father figure, highlighting the manager’s ability to inspire greatness even in moments of tough love.
A Life Beyond Football
The documentary explores Ferguson’s life beyond the pitch, offering a glimpse into his upbringing, family life, and the influences that shaped him. It also addresses controversies like the Glazer family’s takeover of Manchester United and the fallout from the Rock of Gibraltar racehorse dispute.
Triumphs and Turning Points
While much of the film focuses on Ferguson’s historic tenure at Old Trafford, it also examines pivotal moments in his career. It reflects on the impact of Jock Stein on Ferguson’s managerial philosophy and his brief stint as Scotland’s manager following Stein’s sudden death.
Ferguson’s remarkable success at Aberdeen is also given its due, particularly the club’s stunning victory over Real Madrid in the 1983 Cup Winners’ Cup final. Former right-back Stuart Kennedy describes Ferguson’s intense motivational style as a “blast furnace,” while Mark McGhee compares it to the destructive force of a “volcano.”
The Legacy of a Legend
The documentary doesn’t shy away from Ferguson’s challenging early years at Manchester United, including the period leading up to the crucial 1990 FA Cup victory that saved his job. That win marked the beginning of an era of unprecedented success, culminating in his retirement as a Premier League champion in 2013 with a total of 38 trophies over 26 years.
Premiering on Boxing Day
“Sir Alex” promises to provide an in-depth and candid look at one of football’s greatest managers. Fans can watch the documentary on BBC iPlayer starting this Boxing Day.
