Sir AI Ferguson as Man Utd urged to ‘clone’ well-known boss to chop prices

An AI expert says Manchester giants could save cash by creating an artifical version of their iconic manager to keep up engagement with fans

Manchester United could clone Sir Alex Ferguson and other club legends to cut costs claims AI expert.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been on a controversial cost-cutting mission since taking over ownership of Manchester United.

Season ticket holders surrendering seats to corporate fat cats and stopping staff meals have sparked anger – and ending payments to club legends has particularly riled fans.

But AI could now provide a solution to having to cut loose legends of the club and keep them engaged with fans, according to a leading expert in the field.

An AI clone is a digital representation of an individual, created using artificial intelligence, that mimics various aspects of the real person, including their appearance, voice, and even behavioural patterns – built using machine learning.

James Henderson, AI Influencer expert at subscription creator platform Fanvue claims advancements in the technology means sporting icons can now be cloned and fulfil many ambassador duties their real life counterparts can.

Henderson said: “Generative AI is improving so fast, it’s now possible to create AI versions of people – whether it be sporting legends, or current sports and entertainment stars.

Aston Martin recently created an AI version of F1 star Fernando Alonso to connect with fans 24/7, while we’re seeing a rise in celebs creating digital versions of themselves to reach new audiences.

”Henderson revealed that an AI Fergie, Scholes or Becks would have “exciting” capabilities – and in some cases even deliver more than the real life versions.AI Influencers are on the rise, with thousands of digital avatars building huge followings and earning thousands per month on subscription platforms like Fanvue.

Henderson added:“Manchester United have a specific challenge – cutting costs on club legends salaries but not upsetting fans and ruining that part of the experience.

An AI Fergie could have his own social media account, speak to fans around the world in multiple languages 24/7, and even communicate on screen in corporate boxes – not just one, but all of them.Just don’t expect the hairdryer treatment from AI Sir Alex.”