Manchester United (MANU 1.54%) will have to make its way forward with a new manager. Sir Alex Ferguson announced that he will retire at the end of the current season, vacating his position after the celebrated English football (soccer) club's match with West Bromwich Albion on May 19.

He will remain with Manchester United by serving on the club's board.

The 71-year-old Ferguson, a near-legendary figure in the sport, is the longest-serving manager in the team's history. He took up the position in late 1986, and under his stewardship "Man U" has won 38 titles, including 13 Premier League trophies and a pair of European Cups.