Casemiro paid a glowing three-word tribute to Ruud Van Nistelrooy following his Manchester United exit.
The Dutchman was tasked with overseeing playing duties at Old Trafford in the wake of Erik ten Hag’s sacking last month.
Van Nistelrooy’s successful stint as interim head coach came to an end after Sunday’s 3-0 win over Leicester, however it was announced on Monday that the former striker will depart the club.
A statement read: “Ruud is, and always will be, a Manchester United legend. We are grateful for his contribution and the way in which he has approached his role throughout his time with the club. He will always be very welcome at Old Trafford.”
Following the announcement, Casemiro took to Instagram to pay tribute to Van Nistelrooy.
The Brazilian posted a picture of the pair hugging alongside the caption: “Forever grateful. Legend.”
It appeared there was no such embrace from the midfielder when Ten Hag was given his marching orders following United’s 2-1 defeat at West Ham on October 27.
Casemiro had fallen down the pecking order under the former Ajax boss but was immediately handed his place back in the starting XI under Van Nistelrooy.
He went on to start each of United’s four matches during Van Nistelrooy’s stint in charge, chipping in with two goals.
After a stuttering start to the season, the former Real Madrid star has found his feet again which will delight new head coach Ruben Amorim.
The Portuguese arrived at Old Trafford on Monday, signalling a new era for the club.
Amorim will be given some time to bed himself in due to the international break before taking charge of his first game at Ipswich on November 24.
Casemiro is hopeful the Red Devils can start to climb the table under Amorim and build on the good work set by Van Nistelrooy.
“The best thing is that everyone speaks highly of him. He marked an era at Sporting, at a time when FC Porto were the winners,” he told The Mirror.
“Sporting are always among the three favourites, but they are usually a little behind Benfica and FC Porto, who are usually stronger. He marked an era, won titles and had a brilliant career at Sporting. Everyone speaks highly of him.
“He will have an exceptional group here, who want to help, who want to continue growing, who want to learn, who want to be at the top of the table. We are waiting for him with great joy and happiness.”
Sunday’s victory saw United climb to 13th in the table but despite their indifferent start to the season, find themselves just four points off the top four.
Amorim faces a key set of fixtures to kick off his tenure with clashes against Nottingham Forest, Arsenal, Manchester City and Tottenham all taking place before Christmas.
