Ferguson recalls fear and speech loss after 2018 brain haemorrhage

Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has spoken about the difficult recovery that followed a brain haemorrhage in 2018. Ferguson suffered the haemorrhage in May that year and underwent emergency surgery. Four months later, he returned to Old Trafford to watch Manchester United play Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League.

Speaking about that return, Ferguson said he had not felt comfortable despite his long association with the stadium. His wife, Cathy, accompanied him and supporters gave him a standing ovation when they took their seats in the directors’ box. Ferguson said the early period of his recovery was particularly frightening because he had lost his voice and could not speak.

He recalled his grandsons seeing him struggle during visits. A therapist helped him regain speech through exercises that involved writing down the names of birds, animals and rivers. Ferguson said the process eventually helped his voice return.

The Scot, who is approaching his 85th birthday, said he is now feeling well, although he is dealing with some minor injuries. He has also revisited his football career in a new book, Games of My Life. The book examines 21 significant matches from his playing and managerial career.

Ferguson managed Manchester United for 26 years, winning 38 trophies during his time at the club. His account combines memories of his career with a description of the health crisis that temporarily left him unable to speak. He retired from management five years before the haemorrhage and later made a gradual return to public appearances.