RUUD VAN NISTELROOY signed off as Manchester United manager in style and was given a standing ovation by supporters.
The interim boss guided the Red Devils to a 3-0 win over Leicester in his final game in charge.
He was serenaded by the Stretford End
Van Nistelrooy ends his tenure undefeated
His future at Old Trafford remains unclear
Van Nistelrooy has overseen three wins and a draw in his four matches at the helm.
And he will now pass on the reigns to new manager Ruben Amorim from tomorrow.
But Van Nistelrooy’s future is unclear and it remains to be seen whether he will form part of the new coaching set-up or leave the club.
Fans made it clear they would like him to stay and they chanted the Dutch legend’s name towards the end of the game.
Some supporters even looked emotional as their former player took in their love at full-time.
When Van Nistelrooy first took the field, he gave hugs to a number of his teammates, including Bruno Fernandes, who scored the goal.
Then, as he headed toward the tunnel, the Stretford End began to sing to him.
The unbeaten manager raised his arm in recognition and cheered the supporters.
After the game, Van Nistelrooy said: “It is a closure to the block of four games and the future is open.
“It was a beautiful moment to be able to share that with the supporters, it was special.
“A beautiful moment and to show gratitude to them [the fans], I can’t thank them enough.”
Van Nistelrooy has made it clear he would like to stay at Old Trafford, writing in his programme notes today: “I would like to thank everyone for making me feel so welcome and supportive during my time in charge.
“The United fans have always held a special place in my heart, but I can honestly say that my love for you all has only grown during this time.
“The support I have received from the stands at Old Trafford has been fantastic and I have memories of it that I will cherish for the rest of my life.
“The history of this club is incredible and it will always be a great honour for me to have played a part in it as a player.
“Today, however, I am here as a manager and I am looking to the future.
“In this context, I see only positive things for Manchester United.
“I am totally convinced that this club has all the ingredients to return to the level I knew as a player, but it will take a lot of work and determination from everyone at the club to achieve this.
“From tomorrow, I will support our new head coach, Ruben Amorim, and I invite everyone who loves the club to do the same.
“I have worked with this group every day since this summer and I can tell you that there is huge potential in these players, from the experienced executives to the youngsters coming through the academy.
“The coaches, the club staff and the fans all have a role to play in helping these players become the best players they can be.
“Of course, it starts with players taking responsibility for themselves and others, because playing for Manchester United requires strong character, hard work and constant dedication.
“There is no room to hide, especially in today’s media environment, but this is the kind of challenge that you have to relish and embrace.
“Be brave, give it your all and show your talent for yourself, for the badge on your shirt and most importantly for the best fans in the world.
“Let me tell you, whether you are a player or a manager, there is nothing greater than representing Manchester United Football Club.”
