Sir Alex Ferguson, a Manchester United legend, surprised fans by becoming a “life member” of Eintracht Frankfurt. Representatives from the German club met with Ferguson to present him with a Frankfurt scarf and shirt with his name on it. This relationship between Ferguson and Frankfurt dates back to the 1960s when he attended a European Cup semi-final match between Frankfurt and Rangers. Despite Frankfurt losing the final to Real Madrid, Ferguson’s admiration for the club began during this time.
In 1967, Ferguson had the opportunity to face Frankfurt again, this time as a player for Rangers. He scored a hat-trick in a friendly match against Frankfurt, but he admitted that it did not fully avenge the defeat from 1960. As Aberdeen manager in 1979, Ferguson faced Frankfurt in the UEFA Cup first round and was knocked out of the competition after losing the second leg 1-0. He learned an important lesson in coaching regarding player behavior after that experience.
During his illustrious 27-year spell as Manchester United boss, Ferguson did not encounter Frankfurt. However, after retiring from management, he watched as Frankfurt and Rangers played in the 2022 Europa League final, 62 years after their first encounter in the European Cup. Frankfurt emerged victorious on penalties, disappointing Ferguson, who had once again seen his boyhood club beaten by Frankfurt. Despite the result, he praised the spectacle created by fans from both teams in Seville, Spain.