‘Privilege and honour’ – Van Nistelrooy sends heartfelt departing message to Manchester United fans

It was announced earlier this week that Ruud van Nistelrooy would leave Manchester United following the arrival of Ruben Amorim as head coach.

Van Nistelrooy returned to Old Trafford in the summer as one of Erik ten Hag’s assistants, but he became interim manager after INEOS decided it was time to change the man in the hotseat.

INEOS quickly turned their attention to Amorim, who had been enjoying a successful period as Sporting CP manager. The Portuguese coach jumped at the opportunity and has since revealed he already feels at home following a visit to Old Trafford.

Van Nistelrooy was let go by United along with Rene Hake as Amorim introduced his own coaching staff this week. The same staff he trusted in Lisbon.

Now, Van Nistelrooy has sent a message to United fans as he prepares to open a new chapter in his career as a coach.

Ruud van Nistelrooy heartfelt message to fans

The Dutchman shares a special bond with the fans from his time as a player and now a coach. He’ll be forever welcome back to Old Trafford if the opportunity arises.

He took to Instagram to write: “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.

“@ManUtd 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.”

It’s always sad to see a club legend leave the club, but I don’t blame Amorim for his decision.

Every manager will surrounding himself with those he can trust. That is why Amorim has took his coaching staff from Sporting to United because they’re people he has worked with for years.

Amorim doesn’t have that relationship with Van Nistelrooy.