In a revelation that has sent ripples through the football world, former Leeds United manager David O'Leary has disclosed that Sir Alex Ferguson personally recommended him to the Manchester United board as a potential successor back in 2002.

It's a fascinating "what if" moment in Premier League history. At the time, Ferguson had announced plans to step down after a legendary 16-year reign that had already delivered seven league titles and a Champions League trophy. The football world was bracing for life after Fergie.

But in a dramatic U-turn, Ferguson changed his mind in February 2002, declaring he wasn't ready to walk away. That decision paved the way for arguably his greatest team—one that would claim another Champions League and six more Premier League titles before his eventual retirement in 2013.

While Sven-Göran Eriksson was the name most frequently linked with the job (he reportedly had a signed contract ready), O'Leary's revelation adds a compelling new layer to the story. Speaking on *The Overlap's* 'Stick to Football', the Irishman confirmed that his solicitor was approached about the role.

"Alex had recommended about three people or something like that," O'Leary explained. "It never went any further than that. One of the chosen ones, yeah."

O'Leary was certainly in demand during that period. After a stellar playing career at Arsenal, he took the reins at Leeds United in 1998 and guided them to a memorable Champions League semi-final in 2001. He later managed Aston Villa from 2003 to 2006 and had a stint in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ahli.

It's a reminder of just how different football history might have looked—and a testament to Ferguson's enduring influence, even in recommending his own replacement.