Jose Mourinho has penned a heartfelt message to Marouane Fellaini after the former Everton and Manchester United midfielder announced his retirement from football.
The 36-year-old, who made over 100 appearances at Chinese Super League side Shandong Taishan, confirmed he will be hanging up his boots following a four-year spell in Jinan.
Taking to Instagram on Saturday to announce the news, he wrote: "I am writing this post to announce that after a career of 18 years, I am retiring from professional football.
"But it all started long before these 18 years. I remember, like the day of yesterday, my first game as a child, the endless training sessions with my dad, my first selection for Standard de Liege, and my first selection for the Belgian national team. Time flies!
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"What an incredible journey it has been," Fellaini added. "I am so grateful to have played the sport I love at the highest level. I am proud to have represented Standard in Belgium, Everton and Manchester United in the UK, and Shandong Taishan in China."
He added: "It was an honor to have played for the Belgian national team at the Olympics of 2008, Euro 2016 and the World Cups of 2014 and 2018.
"I have played in front of the best fans in the world, and I want to take this moment to thank all of them for their unwavering support throughout my career. Your encouragement and passion have been a constant source of inspiration for me.
"All of this would have been impossible without my family, teammates, coaches, advisers and everyone who has been a part of my journey. Your love, guidance, support, and friendship have been invaluable. Thank you!
"As I embark on this new chapter in my life, I look forward to new challenges, but be assured, I will continue to support the beautiful game in any way I can. See you soon."
A number of Fellaini's former teammates have commented on the post, including David de Gea and Ander Herrera, who both played alongside the Belgian during his spell at Old Trafford.
But perhaps the biggest compliment of all came from former manager Jose Mourinho.
'The Special One' dedicated an entire post to Fellaini on his personal Instagram account – something he reserves for those that have played an instrumental role during his career.
Alongside three pictures of the pair together, Mourinho wrote: "I don’t forget who gave me everything he could give. You were and will always be one of mine.
"Congratulations on your career and rest those ankles that suffered a lot."
Here's how fans on social media reacted to the post.
One said: "This is the thing about Mourinho. If you follow his orders and give him your best he will have your back. It’s not rocket science," while another wrote: "I want someone to love me like Jose loves Fellaini."
A third commented: "The way Jose treats his favourites I'm not surprised most are willing to go to war for him."
A fourth said: "His man management is unmatched. Thats why 99% of everyone whos played for him loves him," while a fifth added: "Fellaini what a monster he was. He gave everything for this club despite being the scapegoat."
Topics: Jose Mourinho, Marouane Fellaini, Manchester United, Premier League, Everton, Fan Reactions
Jack Kenmare