Sir Alex Ferguson was set to coach Arsenal after the 1986 World Cup in Mexico, if former Scotland, Aberdeen and Manchester United goalkeeper Jim Leighton is to be believed.


Leighton, who was part of the Scotland squad coached by Ferguson during the ‘86 World Cup, told BBC Radio Five Live Ferguson was offered the Arsenal manager’s position just prior to the start of the tournament, following the resignation of Don Howe.

According to Leighton, Ferguson had been prepared to take the job – with fellow Scot George Graham as his assistant – but failed to reach an agreement with the north London club as he had wanted to wait until after the World Cup finished before an announcement was made.