Sir Alex Ferguson’s Biggest Regret Involves World Cup Winner He ‘Went Mad For’

Sir Alex Ferguson does not have many regrets from his illustrious managerial career, but one of them was missing out on a World Cup winner for Manchester United.

During his time at Old Trafford, Ferguson signed 105 players with varying levels of success.

Some of his most frequently mentioned worst signings include: Bebe, Eric Djemba-Djemba and Kleberson.

But he also brought in some of United's greatest ever players, most notably Wayne Rooney, Eric Cantona and Cristiano Ronaldo.

However, Ferguson revealed in 2020 that his biggest regret was not signing Alessandro Del Piero from Juventus.

The Italian forward impressed when the two sides met in 2002, and when Juventus were relegated to Serie B in 2006 following the Calciopoli scandal, United made a move for Del Piero.

Ferguson said: "And so I contact the Juve representatives, and the lad's agent.

Juventus forward Alessandro Del Piero (Image: Getty)

"He refused even before listening to my proposal, telling me that Juve was the best place for him and, that while he respected Man United, he would never have been able to betray the black and white colours.

"A pity, because I never again saw someone like him. I courted him even just after Italy's World Cup win [in 2006].

"In that time, Real Madrid were also after him and, given the issues around Juventus at the time, I imagined that between us at United and the 'Galacticos', there would be a fair auction to get him.

"And so I called him directly: 'Alex, I'd like you at United', I said. 'You'll be the star of the squad, and together we'll win everything'.

"He laughed and replied: 'Sir, you know that nothing has changed from all those years ago."

Although several of Juventus' biggest names left the club following their relegation, Del Piero stayed and captained the side in Serie B.

Alessandro Del Piero (Image: Getty)

Despite a nine-point deduction, Juventus won the league, with Del Piero finishing as top scorer with 20 goals.

After their return to the top flight, he signed a two-year contract extension, and remained at the club until 2012.

Ferguson also recalled a later meeting with the Italian star.

"In 2008, I saw him again and he greeted me with a hug," he said.

"He apologised for refusing my offer.

"I put my hand on his shoulder and re-assured him, 'you wanted to save Juventus, and you did it'.

"When someone asks me what player I always wanted to train, but never got the chance, I always say: Alessandro Del Piero."

Earlier this year, the legendary Italian announced he had completed his coaching courses.

With Juventus struggling in Serie A and recently sacking Igor Tudor, some fans have speculated whether Del Piero could be set for a dramatic return to the club.