Ruud van Nistelrooy breaks his silence on Manchester United exit with emotional message to fans

Ruud van Nistelrooy has thanked everyone associated with Manchester United for their support following his recent exit from Old Trafford.

The Dutchman's exit was announced on Monday, just hours after new United head coach Ruben Amorim had arrived in England from Portugal. Van Nistelrooy returned to United during the summer as assistant manager, 18 years after he left the club as a player, and was put in caretaker charge following the exit of fellow countryman Erik ten Hag last month.

He oversaw four matches, winning three and drawing one, holding the fort until Amorim's arrival on November 11.

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Ahead of Amorim's arrival from Sporting Lisbon, Van Nistelrooy made no secret of his desire to stay at United and work alongside the new head coach. However, it was decided the former Netherlands international would leave the club.

Van Nistelrooy posted on his X account: "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."

United announced Van Nistelrooy's departure alongside the exits of Rene Hake, Jelle ten Rouwelaar and Pieter Morel. Amorim has brought a team of coaching staff from Sporting with him to Old Trafford but confirmation of their appointments is yet to have been announced by United.