Soccer: Ferguson could manage abroad

Sir Alex Ferguson has refused to rule out a management role on the Continent when he leaves Manchester United at the end of next season.

Ferguson has confirmed he will sever all ties with Old Trafford when his present contract expires.

And though he has consistently said there is no other management role he would take on after leaving the club, he appears to be having second thoughts.

Spanish giants Barcelona are believed to want Ferguson to take control at the Nou Camp, and are willing to wait another 12 months to get their man.

And Ferguson hinted he could be open to offers.

"I do not know if I will manage another club," he said. "I will be leaving Manchester United at the end of the season and that is it.

"Then I will have to decide what I want to do. There are some offers and options, so I will make a decisions over the next few months."

Ferguson admitted he will be sad to leave Old Trafford and so far the club have refused to elaborate on the reasons behind the Scot's shock decision.

"Managing Manchester United has been the pinnacle of my career," he admitted to skysports.com tv.

"There is a fantastic support here and great players, with great character who should be proud of what they have achieved.

"I am in a healthy position because my own health is good and while you never know what you are going to do, the most important thing is to remain active."

Ferguson has already captured his seventh Premiership title in nine years this season and has his sights set on winning back the Champions League crown in his native Glasgow next year.

United had already offered him a new role as youth development manager, while he had also been touted as a possible worldwide ambassador for the Reds.

Ferguson's son Jason had been handling negotiations with United chief executive Peter Kenyon and the club were hopeful of keeping him at Old Trafford.

But with 14 trophies - including three domestic Doubles and an unprecedented Treble in 1999 - behind him, Ferguson has decided to turn his back on the club.

United are remaining tight-lipped and director of communications Paddy Harverson said: "We have no comment."