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Manchester United Confirm Assistant Manager Rui Faria Is To Leave The Club

Manchester United Confirm Assistant Manager Rui Faria Is To Leave The Club

Jose Mourinho and Faria have issued a statement.

Nasir Jabbar

Nasir Jabbar

Manchester United have confirmed that Rui Faria is to leave the club at the end of the season.

The Portuguese assistant has issued the following statement: "After a lot of consideration, and with a very heavy heart, I have decided the time is right for me to move on," he told MUFC.

Faria added: I have had 17 years of incredible and unforgettable experiences. However, I have felt for some time that I would like to spend much more quality time with my family before pursuing any new challenge in my professional life.

"My heartfelt thanks go to the manager, Jose Mourinho, for the belief he had in me, all those years ago, when it all was just a student dream. I would like to thank him for the opportunity and confidence, for the knowledge and experience, but most importantly for his friendship.

"I would also like to thank Manchester United and all the clubs where I have had the privilege of working during this period. I would like to say a big 'thank you' to all the staff and players who, in different ways, have made an important contribution to my growth as a person and as a professional.

"I wish you all the best for the future, knowing that you will always be my close friends."

While Jose Mourinho has also reacted to the news.

"17 years... in Leiria, Porto, London, Milan, Madrid, London again and Manchester. Training, playing, travelling, studying, laughing and also a few tears of happiness."

Mourinho and Faria together at Chelsea. Image: PA
Mourinho and Faria together at Chelsea. Image: PA
And at United. Image: PA
And at United. Image: PA

Mourinho added: "17 years and the kid is now a man. The intelligent student is now a football expert, ready for a successful career as a manager.

"I will miss my friend and that is the hardest thing for me, but his happiness is more important and, of course, I respect his decision, especially because I know that we will always be together. Be happy, brother!"

United will now be on the look out for a new No.2.

Featured Image Credit: Manchester United

Topics: Football News, Jose Mourinho, Football, Manchester United