Ruud van Nistelrooy speaks for the first time since leaving Manchester United

Ruud van Nistelrooy described it as “an honour” to serve as Manchester United’s interim head coach in an emotional farewell message following his departure.

The United legend left the club earlier this week after Ruben Amorim’s appointment, having managed the team for four matches following Erik ten Hag’s departure.

Van Nistelrooy has now addressed his exit in a heartfelt statement posted on social media.

In a message shared on X, he 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.

“@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.”

Ruud van Nistelrooy concluded his tenure at Old Trafford with an impressive record, winning three out of four matches and capping off his stint with a convincing 3-0 victory over Leicester City last weekend.

Speculation had been mounting that Van Nistelrooy – who rejoined Manchester United as an assistant coach to Erik ten Hag during the summer – was bidding farewell to the fans after the match.

This was confirmed shortly afterward when it was announced that the former PSV Eindhoven manager would not be part of Ruben Amorim’s revamped coaching staff.

The Red Devils confirmed the decision in a statement on Monday afternoon, which read: “Manchester United can confirm that Ruud van Nistelrooy has left the club.

“Ruud rejoined in the summer and has taken charge of the team for the past four matches as interim head coach.

“Ruud is, and always will be, a Manchester United legend.

“We are grateful for his contribution and the way in which he has approached his role throughout his time with the club. He will always be very welcome at Old Trafford.

“Rene Hake, Jelle ten Rouwelaar and Pieter Morel have also departed and we wish them all well for the future.

“We will confirm the full men’s first team coaching composition in due course.”

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