Rui Faria, Jose Mourinho’s long time assistant, has decided to leave Manchester United at the end of the campaign.
Faria will end his 17-year association with the United boss next month in order to spend more time with his family.
The Portuguese has been ever present alongside Mourinho throughout his successes as a coach and his departure means a huge blow for the United boss.
It remains to be seen if Mourinho will bring in a new coach to replace Faria. Michael Carrick is due to join Mourinho’s coaching staff when he retires after their final league game of the season against Watford.
“After a lot of consideration, and with a very heavy heart, I have decided the time is right for me to move on,” Faria said.
“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.”
Mourinho paid tribute to his assistant’s commitment.
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He said: “Seventeen years… in Leiria, Porto, London, Milan, Madrid, London again and Manchester. Training, playing, travelling, studying, laughing and also a few tears of happiness.
“Seventeen 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!”
