Ruud van Nistelrooy thankful for ‘honour’ of representing Manchester United

Ruud van Nistelrooy has expressed his gratitude and deep appreciation for his time at Manchester United, following his departure from the Premier League club.

In an emotional message shared on Friday, the Dutchman said he would “cherish the memories” of his time at Old Trafford.

Ruud van Nistelrooy, who had been appointed as temporary manager after the sacking of Erik ten Hag in late October, oversaw a solid run of results, securing three wins and one draw in his four-match spell.

His final match in charge ended with a 3-0 victory over Leicester City in the Premier League on Sunday.

The 48-year-old, who had joined United as an assistant coach in July under a two-year contract, had hoped to remain part of the coaching staff under new manager Ruben Amorim.

However, United confirmed on Monday that Van Nistelrooy would not be continuing in the new managerial setup, marking the end of his brief tenure as interim manager.

In his farewell message, Ruud van Nistelrooy thanked the club’s staff, players, and fans for their incredible support during his time at the club.

The former striker, who had an illustrious playing career with United and Real Madrid, expressed how special Manchester United would always be to him.

“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 wrote on his social media accounts.

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“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,” he added. “@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!”

Ruben Amorim, who was appointed as the new permanent manager, will take charge of his first match on November 24, away to struggling Ipswich, after the ongoing international break.

Manchester United is currently 13th in the Premier League, having had a disappointing start to the season, though they remain just four points behind the top four.