Former Manchester United interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy has opened up about his departure from Old Trafford, revealing he left feeling "hurt" and "disappointed."
The Dutch tactician briefly took the reins at United after the dismissal of compatriot Erik ten Hag, securing three wins in four matches.
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However, his stint came to an end when Ruben Amorim was named the club's permanent manager last month.
Now unveiled as Leicester City's new manager, Van Nistelrooy shed light on his United exit, detailing his conversations with Amorim.
"The moment I took over the interim job, what I said was I'm here to help United and to stay to help United, and I meant it. So I was disappointed, very much so, and it hurt I had to leave," the 48-year-old said, as quoted by the Daily Mail.
"The only job I would have taken as an assistant manager was at United because of the bond I have with the people in the club, and the fans.
"In the end I got my head round it because I also understand the new manager. I'm a manager myself. You can think of a situation, me being there… I understand.
"I spoke to Ruben about it, fair enough to him. I was grateful for the conversation: man to man, person to person, manager to manager.
"That helped me a lot to move on and straightaway get into talks about new possibilities which of course lifted my spirits."
The Dutchman faces a significant challenge at Leicester, where his primary goal is to steer the club away from relegation danger. The Foxes currently sit 16th in the Premier League, just one point above the drop zone.
Van Nistelrooy will make his managerial debut at the King Power Stadium on Tuesday night in a crucial clash against West Ham United.
Despite the daunting task ahead, he believes taking the Leicester job was the right move for his career.
"It was four games (at Man Utd) and I've managed a full season at PSV and won the cup and the charity shield," he told the club's official website.
"And the year before, in the Championship with Jong PSV. I've been in coaching with the national team, too.
"I was able to make a decision that felt really good for me, and now I'm here.
"Everyone tells you about how good the facilities are here but when you come and see it with your own eyes, it's hard to believe."
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