8 big Rafa v Fergie rows

FERGIE FURY... there is no love lost between the United boss and Rafa Benitez

JULY 2007

WHAT HAPPENED? Fergie refused to sell Gabriel Heinze to United’s bitter rivals Liverpool.

WHAT WAS SAID? Gabriel will not join them. We are not happy with the agent’s conduct in the matter.

JAN 2009

WHAT HAPPENED? Benitez attacks Fergie for treatment of refs.

WHAT WAS SAID? Let’s talk facts. He was charged for comments made about Martin
Atkinson and Keith Hackett. He wasn’t punished.

APRIL 2009

WHAT HAPPENED? Fergie labelled Benitez arrogant for making a hand gesture at Blackburn boss Sam Allardyce.

WHAT WAS SAID? It’s arrogance but you can’t forgive his contempt for Sam.

SEP 2010

WHAT HAPPENED? Fergie pinned the blame for Liverpool’s decline on Benitez.

WHAT WAS SAID? I don’t know if finishing seventh last season after being second behind us the year before had anything to do with finances. I’ve never been personal. You have to examine him, not me.

SEP 2010

WHAT HAPPENED? Fergie endorsed Liverpool’s decision to sack Benitez.

WHAT WAS SAID? I wasn’t surprised at all that Liverpool changed their manager. I think everyone expected it.

If he hadn’t signed a contract the previous season then I’m sure he’d have gone before.

OCT 2011

WHAT HAPPENED? Benitez plays down Fergie’s ability.

WHAT WAS SAID? No, it’s the money. If you analyse the transfer record, Rooney or Ferdinand £30m. Every year they’re well off.

NOV 2012

WHAT HAPPENED? Fergie re-opens war of words when Benitez is appointed Chelsea interim boss.

WHAT WAS SAID? Mourinho won the treble at Inter. Rafa took over and they won world title without doing anything.

JAN 2013

WHAT HAPPENED? Benitez reiterated claim that Fergie pressures refs after blasting Ian Beck .
WHAT WAS SAID? It’s up to FA what they do. What I said at that time was what I thought. What I see now is similar.