Rio Ferdinand has surprise theory to explain why Ruben Amorim did not keep Ruud van Nistelrooy as assistant at Manchester United

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand believes incoming head coach Ruben Amorim did not keep Ruud van Nistelrooy as an assistant at Old Trafford because of the fans' fondness for the Dutchman. The Red Devils sacked Erik ten Hag in late October after a string of poor results, paving the way for Van Nistelrooy to take over as interim manager. The former United striker had joined Erik ten Hag's coaching staff as an assistant this summer.

The United hierarchy made a quick move for Ruben Amorim, who was managing Sporting CP, completing a deal for him to join Manchester United on November 11.

In four games as interim manager, Van Nistelrooy led the Red Devils to three wins and a draw and stated that he would be willing to continue as an assistant under Amorim. However, Amorim has decided to bring in the coaches he worked with at Sporting CP and Van Nistelrooy, along with coaches Rene Hake, Jelle ten Rouwelaar, and Pieter Morel have left United.

Some fans were hopeful that Van Nistelrooy would get the chance to work with Amorim, but Rio Ferdinand has explained why he thinks the Portuguese tactician chose otherwise. He said on his podcast (via talkSPORT):

"I would keep him, 100 per cent, but I think it's so difficult. I think [for] the manager it's not an easy transition to go in and have, sitting next to you on the sideline at Old Trafford, one of the most prolific strikers [in the club's history]."

"The fans love him. They loved him before [his interim spell], they love him even more now. And any turns of results or bumps in the road, they'll say to get Ruud in as a manager."

Ruben Amorim's first assignment as United head coach will be against Ipswich Town at Portman Road on Sunday, November 24, in the Premier League.

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Manchester United winger pays tribute to Ruud van Nistelrooy

Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho has paid tribute to Ruud van Nistelrooy after the Dutchman's departure from Old Trafford was announced. The Argentine star took to social media, posting on Instagram (via Mirror):

"It was a short time but it was special. I learned a lot from you and I will keep it to myself for the rest of my career. But what I will remember the most is how you are as a person. We will meet again legend."

Garnacho showcased his brilliance in Van Nistelrooy's last game as interim boss. The Argentine winger curled a shot from the edge of the area to score the final goal in their 3-0 Premier League win over Leicester City on November 10.

It will be interesting to see how the 20-year-old Argentine fares under Amorim.