"After 29 seasons at Manchester
United as a player and assistant manager, I know winning is in the DNA of this club
- giving youth a chance, and playing attacking and exciting football. It’s
healthy to have high expectations, it’s right to expect to win. Manchester
United expects, deserves, nothing less.
"This is why it is a huge
decision for me to step away from the club that has been my life since the age
of 14. It has not been a decision that I have made lightly. I'll take away so
many special memories as well as a lifetime of experiences that will, I hope,
serve me well in the future.
"However, the time feels right
and, although I have no immediate plans to step into management, it is where I
want to be.
"I’ve been extremely fortunate
in having two great managerial mentors; first in Sir Alex, who I’ve spent the
majority of my life working with and learning from and who I believe will
remain as football’s greatest-ever manager and in more recent times, Louis van
Gaal, whose CV speaks for itself. The knowledge I have gleaned from them has
been invaluable.
"I want to reiterate my thanks
to the backroom staff and support teams at Manchester United I’ve worked with
over the years. The results on the pitch are a reflection of the hard work off
it. I would not have achieved the success I have without the dedication,
sacrifice and commitment of these people in creating the best environment for
the team to succeed.
"I want to congratulate José
Mourinho on his appointment as manager of the world’s biggest club. There are
only a handful of proven winners at the very highest level and José is
unquestionably one of them. I know the fans will welcome him.
"My final thank you is to the
fans. I cannot begin to tell you how much I will miss walking out at Old
Trafford in front of you. It’s extremely difficult to say goodbye after 29
years. I have loved every minute both as a player and assistant manager. The
support you have always shown me has been phenomenal; thank you.
"It’s time for a new chapter
and a new challenge. I’m excited about the future - I’ve had the best
apprenticeship into management anyone could ever ask for."
Manchester United Executive
vice-chairman, Ed Woodward said: "Ryan’s place in the history of
Manchester United is assured. He has been a constant presence at the club since
1987 and, during his playing days, regularly delighted crowds; first with his
dazzling wing play and later with his intelligence and ability to dictate a
game.
"He has tackled his coaching
and management responsibilities with similar rigour and diligence. The
experiences and discipline he developed at United will undoubtedly be a big
help as he continues to learn his trade. He has all the attributes to be a
terrific manager in the future. Everyone at the club wishes him well in his new
career. He will be missed but will always be welcome at Manchester
United."
Credit Source
Online
