Jose Mourinho's long-term assistant Rui Faria has announced he is to leave Manchester United this summer and end his 17-year spell working with the Portuguese manager.
Faria has been a loyal member of Mourinho's coaching staff and has stood alongside the United boss ever since he took the job as manager of Portuguese side Leiria back in 2001.
'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 on Manchester United's official website. '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.'
Faria's last match in the dugout alongside Mourinho will be next weekend's FA Cup final against Chelsea at Wembley, with United to close out their Premier League campaign at home to Watford this Sunday.
The 42-year-old has been mentioned in some reports as a possible contender to succeed Arsene Wenger as Arsenal manager next season. However, despite reports, Mourinho has paid tribute to his colleague and friend Faria.
'17 years… in Leiria, Porto, London, Milan, Madrid, London again and Manchester,' he commented. 'Training, playing, travelling, studying, laughing and also a few tears of happiness.
'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!'
