Is Sir Alex Ferguson Ready to Quit Manchester United in 2013?

According to Sir Alex Ferguson's close friend, Wigan Athletic chairman Dave Whelan, Manchester United's most successful manager may be ready to retire at the end of the 2012-13 season.

A report on DailyMail.co.uk has Whelan saying: "After next season, Sir Alex will call it a day."

"The pressure is telling, especially when you're at the top for so long."

Whelan's quotes come in the wake of a health scare suffered by Sir Alex last week, when he was rushed to hospital after suffering a violent nosebleed.

With the Scot having always considered his health a higher priority than his career, Whelan believes that next season will be his last.

"He had a little scare and that tells me he will think very hard and realise there is no point trying to carry on and take the risk."

The Manchester United manager had previously announced his retirement for 2002, but was convinced by his family to reconsider, consequently leading the Red Devils to a further five league titles.

When recently asked how long he would remain in charge of United, Sir Alex responded that he would stay on for another three years after turning 70.

But Whelan's quotes will be bringing fresh worries for United fans, as most are unwilling to consider the realities of life after Fergie.