Arsene Wenger is the latest high-profile manager to pay tribute to Sir Alex Ferguson’s career, after the Scot declared his retirement at the end of the current season.

Wenger has been managing Arsenal since 1996, while Sir Alex has been managing Manchester United since 1986, which means that the two have faced each other and recognize each others styles very well by now. Their rivalry has been relished by both United and the Arsenal faithful, and it would be hard to imagine a match between the two sides without the Scottish manager on the sidelines.

The Wenger-Sir Alex rivalry is part of the reason why the two clubs are such arch rivals, and the latter’s retirement could mean reduced hype for the upcoming matches between the two sides. Right from fights at the tunnel, to face-to-face arguments at the touchline, these two have seen it all, and yet have the utmost respect for one another.

According to the Metro, despite having played mind games with each other throughout the year, Wenger has heaped praise on the stature and experience of Sir Alex in the Barclays Premier League. Also, the Frenchman acknowledged the flexible structure built by the Scot at the club, which has been reaping the benefits of numerous league titles over the past two decades.

Everton boss, David Moyes, has been named the new manager at the helm, but Wenger feels that Moyes will have huge shoes to fill when he takes over next season.

Wenger said, “I would just like to pay tribute to an unbelievable achievement and a fantastic career.”

“Basically the achievement is immaculate, when you look at the whole structure and consistency of the achievement. It is, of course, something exceptional.”

“It is difficult to imagine English football without him, but it’s now a reality and a fact. Of course the next manager has to fill in and show he has the dimension to do that. It is a big task for the guy who comes in.”

Despite Wenger’s massive respect for Sir Alex, the Frenchman will be looking at next season as a chance to catch up on the quality built by the Scot, and bridge the gaps between the sides. Arsenal supporters would be expecting the same from their manager and board, who are now being forced to be more supportive with transfer funds.

Will Wenger be able to close the gap next season? We will have to wait and see.