Van Nistelrooy's emotional Man Utd goodbye message

Tom Weber
Tom Weber
  • 15 Nov 2024 06:21 CST
  • 3 min read
Ruud van Nistelrooy, Man Utd interim manager, 2024/25
© IMAGO

Manchester United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy has said his goodbyes to the club after a brief but intense few months at the club.

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The former striker was brought back to his old stomping ground by Erik ten Hag in the summer to act as an assistant to his compatriot. However, after overseeing the club's worst-ever start to a Premier League season, Ten Hag was sacked in late October.

Van Nistelrooy subsequently took interim charge of the side for four games, winning three of his matches on the sideline. An eminently popular figure with the squad and the fanbase, many believed that the 48-year-old would be retained by new head coach Ruben Amorim.

READ MORE: When will Ruben Amorim start at Man Utd amid work permit issues?

However, the Portuguese arrived in Manchester on November 11 with five members of his Sporting CP backroom staff and he bluntly informed Van Nistelrooy and the rest of Ten Hag's remaining allies that there was no room for them.

Later that same day, Man Utd announced that Van Nistelrooy had departed the club.

Ruud van Nistelrooy
© IMAGO - Ruud van Nistelrooy

Van Nistelrooy's goodbye message

Now, the Red Devils legend has published an emotional goodbye message to the club on his social media accounts. “To everyone at Manchester United Football Club, in particular the backroom staff, the players and the fans," he began.

"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.

READ MORE: Man Utd 'consider slashing' disabled supporter funding

"M.U.F.C 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.”

Read more about: Premier League, Man Utd

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