Ruud van Nistelrooy has spoken for the first time since his Manchester United exit was confirmed, with the Dutchman sending a message to the club's backroom staff, players and supporters.
The 48-year-old represented the Red Devils as a player between 2001 and 2006, scoring 150 goals in 219 appearances, before his return to Old Trafford was confirmed over the summer, becoming an assistant to Erik ten Hag.
Van Nistelrooy was appointed interim head coach when Ten Hag was sacked at the end of last month, and he led Man United for four matches, finishing with a record of three wins and one draw.
The Dutchman had spoken openly about his desire to remain at Old Trafford under new head coach Ruben Amorim, but it was announced earlier this week that he would be leaving the club.
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Van Nistelrooy: "I will always cherish the memories"
Amorim will be bringing in his own staff, with confirmation set to arrive at the start of next week, with the Portuguese still waiting to receive his visa.
"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," Van Nistelrooy posted on social media.
"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.
"Man 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."
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What next for Van Nistelrooy?
Van Nistelrooy certainly looked the part on the touchline, and he can be pleased with his work at Man United, having guided the Red Devils to three wins from their last four matches in all competitions.
It was always going to be difficult for Van Nistelrooy to stay under Amorim, and he deserves to now be given the chance to prove himself at another club, with a return to Man United in the future certainly a possibility.
Burnley are believed to be huge admirers of Van Nistelrooy, with the club thought to be considering him as a replacement for Scott Parker, should the Championship outfit decide to make a change.
The Dutchman has also previously been in charge of PSV Eindhoven, boasting a record of 33 wins, 10 draws and eight defeats from his 51 matches between May 2022 and May 2003, while he was also the head coach of PSV's reserve team between June 2021 and May 2022.
Matt Law
