Sir Alex Ferguson hospitalised after falling ill at Old Trafford before Liverpool match

Key facts

• Sir Alex Ferguson was taken to hospital after falling unwell at Old Trafford on Sunday.
• The incident occurred shortly before Manchester United's Premier League match against Liverpool.
• Ferguson, 84, was admitted as a precautionary measure, not an emergency.
• He had previously suffered a brain haemorrhage in 2018.
• Dr Aseem Malhotra, a consultant cardiologist, posted a photo with Ferguson on X before the game.
• Ferguson was taken by ambulance from the tunnel area of Old Trafford.
• Manchester United won the match 3-2 against Liverpool.
• Michael Carrick, who played under Ferguson, wished him well after the game.

A sudden turn before kick-off

Sir Alex Ferguson was taken to hospital after falling unwell at Old Trafford on Sunday, shortly before Manchester United's Premier League clash with Liverpool. The 84-year-old former manager, who led the club for 27 years, was in the directors' box area when he required medical attention. Sources stressed the move was precautionary and not an emergency. Club officials expressed optimism that Ferguson would soon be fit enough to return home.

Precautionary admission and medical response

Ferguson was pictured with guests at the stadium a couple of hours before kick-off. Dr Aseem Malhotra, a consultant cardiologist, posted a picture on X showing himself with Ferguson, writing: 'A privilege, honour and dream come true to be invited to spend some quality time with Sir Alex Ferguson ahead of the game against Liverpool today at Old Trafford.' Later, Ferguson was taken by ambulance from the tunnel area of Old Trafford to the hospital. No further update on his condition has been provided since his admission.

Ferguson's health history

The incident comes five years after Ferguson suffered a brain haemorrhage in 2018 that left him seriously ill. He spoke in detail about his recovery three years later. The former manager, who remains a regular presence at United matches, has been a fixture in the directors' box since his retirement.

Reaction from the United camp

After United's 3-2 victory over Liverpool, head coach Michael Carrick, who won five Premier League titles and the Champions League under Ferguson, said he wished his former manager 'all the best.' Carrick added: 'Hopefully when he hears about the result it will give him a good boost.' Ferguson signed Carrick from Tottenham in 2006, and the midfielder became a key figure in the Scot's final years at the club.

A match overshadowed

The on-field drama saw Manchester United secure a 3-2 win over Liverpool at Old Trafford, with Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate calling the loss 'a big disappointment.' Liverpool manager Arne Slot confirmed that Alexander Isak was unavailable due to injury, while Cody Gakpo reached a milestone of 50 goals for the club. But the result was secondary to the concern over Ferguson's health, which cast a shadow over the afternoon's events.

Outlook and unanswered questions

Club officials remain optimistic that Ferguson will be discharged soon, but no official statement has been released on his condition. The 84-year-old's health will continue to be monitored, with well-wishes pouring in from across the football world. The incident serves as a reminder of Ferguson's enduring presence at the club, even in retirement, and the deep connections he forged with players and staff over his 27-year reign.

The bottom line

• Sir Alex Ferguson was hospitalised as a precaution after falling ill before the Manchester United vs Liverpool match.
• The 84-year-old former manager had a brain haemorrhage in 2018 and has since recovered.
• Club officials are optimistic he will return home soon.
• Michael Carrick, a former player under Ferguson, publicly wished him well after the game.
• Manchester United won the match 3-2, but the result was overshadowed by Ferguson's health scare.
• No further medical updates have been provided since his admission.