Sir Alex Ferguson did not appear in a new movie charting the life of Sir Matt Busby – because he is making a film of his own life.
Former Manchester United boss Ferguson is understood to have declined an invitation to appear in Busby, because of his ongoing involvement in his own project.
The team behind Busby contacted Ferguson about being involved, but were told he was working on a cinematic version of his own career so would not be able to contribute.
Former United boss Ferguson, who stepped down in 2013 after 26-and-a-half years in charge, is a surprising omission from the film, given the close bond he formed with Busby when he took over at Old Trafford in 1986.
Busby helped Ferguson in the latter's difficult first few years in charge of United, offering advice and guidance on managing the world's biggest football club, and became a confidante for his fellow Scot.
Ferguson followed the 'Busby Babes' philosophy of his most decorated predecessor, putting his faith in youth players from the United Academy, including Ryan Giggs, David Beckham, Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt and the Neville brothers, just as Sir Matt had done four decades earlier, with the likes of Sir Bobby Charlton and Duncan Edwards.
Work on the biopic of Ferguson has been going on for two years and it is understood the film will be directed by his son, Jason, who will benefit from unrestricted access to his father and his inner circle.
Ferguson made a 51-minute long documentary, entitled Secrets of My Success, back in 2015, which focused on his management and leadership principles.
But the new project will be the first cinematic interpretation of his remarkable and illustrious career, charting his rise from humble beginnings in Glasgow to the pinnacle of world sport with United.
