'Listen to the nonsense'- Sir Alex reminds legendary Manchester United duo who the boss is

While Carrick and Ferdinand were deep in conversation during the podcast recording, the calm atmosphere was suddenly upended by a surprise arrival, Sir Alex Ferguson. Unaware of the ongoing shoot, the iconic former manager walked in and was visibly unimpressed by the setup, making his presence and disapproval immediately known.

“What’s this? I’m not doing this podcast!”

Despite being caught off guard, both Carrick and Ferdinand responded with the kind of warmth and deference that only Ferguson could command. They quickly reassured him that the recording was wrapping up and invited him to grab a coffee while they finished up.

“Alright boss? No, no, no. We’re going to talk after. You go and get a coffee, boss.”

True to form, Sir Alex took a seat nearby, jokingly keen to eavesdrop on the “nonsense” his former players were chatting about. But even off-camera, he wasn’t done making his mark. Just a few minutes later, his phone rang loudly in the background, briefly cutting through the podcast. Still, Ferdinand and Carrick took it all in stride, clearly unbothered, after all, when it’s the gaffer, you roll with it.

“Oh, you’re just finishing? I’ll go sit over here. I just want to listen to the nonsense that you talk!”

It’s moments like these that perfectly illustrate the lasting aura of Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United. He’s not just remembered for the 38 trophies, including 13 Premier League titles and two Champions League triumphs, but also for the fierce respect and loyalty he clearly continues to inspire.

Carrick and Ferdinand’s immediate deference showed just how deep that respect runs. They weren’t two retired players catching up, they were still, in many ways, two students in the presence of their old master.

Ferguson’s leadership extended far beyond the pitch. His tireless work ethic and relentless standards shaped Manchester United’s greatest era and still serve as a blueprint for what it means to wear the badge. He built Manchester United into a global powerhouse through discipline, humour, and unshakable standards. And even in a quiet restaurant, mid-podcast, he’s still the boss.

Let others talk. At United, we listen to the gaffer.