The decision heard around the world

Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger: “It is a big loss for United and it takes time for a team to adjust to the loss of a player like that. It was a complete surprise, although he looked recently more and more disenchanted with his partners in the team so maybe it’s not as big a surprise as it might look.

“I feel Roy Keane was a massive influence on the pitch from what I’ve seen when we’ve played them. He was a football brain for Manchester United, he was a highly motivated player and a quality player. I don’t think, at 34, that he’s the central midfielder that he was at 28 but he’s still a top Premiership player and will still be a loss for Manchester United.”

Real Madrid star, David Beckham: “Whether he finishes playing or carries on I don’t know. He could become a manager, but not right away, because it is difficult when you are as young as he is, but I believe his potential in going into anything and succeeding is high. Maybe he’ll just spend time with his family.