Sir Alex Ferguson's feelings on Jim Ratcliffe speak volumes as he's 'axed' by Man Utd

Sir Jim Ratcliffe has terminated Sir Alex Ferguson's lucrative ambassadorial ties with Manchester United, despite their positive relationship.

It emerged on Tuesday that Ferguson's deal, valued at over £2million annually, has been scrapped as part of Ineos' sweeping budget reductions, which have resulted in 250 staff departure. Following his retirement in 2013, Ferguson, who won 38 trophies as United boss, became a global ambassador for the club, and has stayed in the role for more than a decade. However, following a face-to-face meeting with Ratcliffe, he's been informed that his contract will be severed at the end of the current season.

According to The Athletic, the 82-year-old Scot took no offence to the decision, and both sides parting ways on cordial terms. Considering the friendly history between Ferguson and Ratcliffe, this isn't much a surprise.

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Shortly before Ratcliffe's minority stake in United was confirmed, Ferguson said he felt "optimistic" about the billionaire and the impact he might have on the club: "I am still a director of the club and I know Jim (Ratcliffe) well," he said at the time, adding: "We shall have to see what he does but I am optimistic."

Ferguson and Ratcliffe have been spotted sitting together, or in close proximity, at various United games throughout the past year. Following a shared appearance in the director's box during the club's 2-2 draw with Tottenham in January, Ratcliffe expressed high regard for the iconic Scottish manager.

"He was the first person I met when