Rivals of old, friends at present.
Arsene Wenger showed his class on Sunday when he wished Sir Alex Ferguson well in his recovery from brain surgery, before addressing the Arsenal fans in his farewell speech.
Wenger is leaving Arsenal after 22-years in charge and he oversaw his final game at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday afternoon in a 5-0 win over Burnley.
The Frenchman took a moment to mention his friend and former rival, who remains in hospital following a brain haemorrhage over the weekend.
READ MORE: 5 years to the day Sir Alex Ferguson announced his retirement
“Firstly, because at Arsenal we care, we would like to wish Sir Alex Ferguson to get well very quickly.”
Ferguson presented Wenger with a present before his side took on United at Old Trafford last week. The Reds won, 2-1, thanks to a late winner from Marouane Fellaini.
Arsene Wenger starts his speech off by wishing Sir Alex Ferguson well. What an absolute gentleman and legend. Much respect, Arsene. #MerciArsène pic.twitter.com/7Ryqk9vGzI
— United Xtra (@utdxtra) 6 May 2018
After 22 years in the job, and an emotional day all round, Arsène Wenger steps up to say his farewell but his first comment is wishing Sir Alex Ferguson well with his health. Sums him up perfectly, class personified.
— Patrick Timmons (@PatrickTimmons1) 6 May 2018
Typically classy start from Wenger as he addresses the crowd: “I would like to wish my fellow manager, Ferguson, well, very quickly.”
— James Olley (@JamesOlley) 6 May 2018
Wenger’s farewell and the first thing he does is wish Ferguson the best recovery.
Such a classy man🙌🏻 pic.twitter.com/I3jecOTgkv
— TheArseneView (@TheArseneView) 6 May 2018