Louis van Gaal “very disappointed” to leave Manchester United

Louis van Gaal has issued a statement following the news that he is no longer manager of Manchester United.

In the account, the 64-year-old has spoken of his happiness at having guided the club to a 12th FA Cup triumph, but added that he is “very disappointed” to not be seeing out the remaining 12 months of his contract at Old Trafford.

He also reserved praise for the supporters and thanked Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Bobby Charlton for the support that they had shown him during his two-season tenure.

The statement in full read: “It has been an honour to manage such a magnificent club as Manchester United FC, and in doing so, I have fulfilled a long-held ambition.

“I am immensely proud to have helped United win the FA Cup for the 12th time in the club’s history. I have been privileged during my management career to have won 20 trophies but winning the FA Cup, which is steeped in so much history, will always be one of the most special achievements of my career.

“I hope that winning the FA Cup will give the club a platform to build upon next season to restore the success that this passionate set of fans desire.

“Having managed in Holland, Spain and Germany, I had always hoped for the opportunity to manage in English football and be part of English culture. Both of these experiences have lived up to expectations and been fantastic.

“I thank my players and wish them well for next season. It has been a pleasure to work with them and it has been particularly rewarding to see so many young players take their chance to break into the first team and excel. I look forward to watching the continued development of these young players next season.

“Thank you to the owners and board of Manchester United for giving me the opportunity to manage this great club.

“I would also like to express my gratitude to the amazing United supporters. They are truly the best fans in the world.

“I am indebted to my support and coaching staff, who have given me their all during their time at the club.

“I am deeply grateful to each and every member of the club’s staff – the sports science team, the medical team, the kit and laundry department, club administration, the press office, the manager’s team, the academy team, ground staff and the catering team, both at Old Trafford stadium and Carrington training ground, all of whom have given me their unwavering support in my time at United. Never in my 25 years as a manager have I been so well supported in my role.

“Finally, my special thanks go to Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Bobby Charlton for always making me and my family feel so welcome throughout my time as Manchester United manager.”

There have been suggestions that Mourinho’s appointment could be confirmed as early as tomorrow.