Ruud van Nistelrooy says it was a “privilege and an honour” to manage Manchester United after his dream of remaining at Old Trafford was dashed by new boss Ruben Amorim.
Van Nistelrooy had four games in interim charge following the dismissal of Erik ten Hag, winning three, and left on a high note with an emphatic 3-0 defeat of Leicester City on Sunday.
He repeatedly said he hoped to work under Amorim but the Portuguese opted to bring in his own staff with Van Nistelrooy leaving earlier this week.
Van Nistelrooy remains a hugely popular figure among the United fans and his love for the club was evident by the way he conducted himself during his second stint in Manchester.
He took to X earlier today to say a heartfelt goodbye.
“To everyone at Manchester United Football Club, in particular the backroom staff, the players and the fans. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your incredible efforts and support. It has been a privilege and honour to represent the club as a player, coach and… pic.twitter.com/G9Z2Ad249u
— Ruud van Nistelrooij (@RvN1776) November 15, 2024
The Dutchman wrote: “To everyone at Manchester United Football Club, in particular the backroom staff, the players and the fans. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your incredible efforts and support.
“It has been a privilege and honour to represent the club as a player, coach and manager, and I will always cherish the memories we have shared together.
“Manchester United will always have a special place in my heart, and I hope there are many more glory days at Old Trafford very soon – not only because I want the club to do well, but because you all deserve it!
“All the best and take care, Ruud.”
Van Nistelrooy’s next move is uncertain but his interim spell did nothing to hamper his chances of getting a Premier League job in the near future.