London (CNN) -- English soccer's most successful manager -- Manchester United's Alex Ferguson -- is retiring at the end of the season after more than a quarter of a century at the helm, the club announced Wednesday.
The 71-year-old Scot has managed the English club -- which is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and has millions of fans around the world -- since 1986.
During his 26 years as manager, Ferguson has won more than 30 trophies, including 13 league championships.
Ferguson will bow out after the club's last game of the season, an away match against West Bromwich Albion, on May 19, according to a statement from Manchester United.
Watch: Alex Ferguson's legacy
Before then he will have one more home game at Old Trafford Sunday, against Swansea City.
It's not clear who Manchester United will choose to replace him. Ferguson will join the club's board as a director and "ambassador," Manchester United said.
"The decision to retire is one that I have thought a great deal about and one that I have not taken lightly. It is the right time," Ferguson said.
"It was important to me to leave an organization in the strongest possible shape and I believe I have done so."
The quality of the team, the balance of the players' ages and its upcoming youth squad will contribute to its continued "success at the highest level" and "ensure that the long-term future of the club remains a bright one."
Ferguson paid tribute to the club's "players and staff, past and present," thanking them "for a staggering level of professional conduct and dedication that has helped to deliver so many memorable triumphs. Without their contribution the history of this great club would not be as rich." He also expressed gratitude to his family and the club's many supporters, at home and abroad.
Many fans took to Twitter to voice their appreciation, using the handle #thankyousiralex.
To be continued
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