Michael Carrick's final act as a Manchester United employee was to oversee a 3-2 Premier League win at home to Arsenal.
Within minutes of Martin Atkinson blowing his final whistle at Old Trafford, the home side confirmed the departure of their first-team coach-turned-stand-in manager.
New interim manager Ralf Rangnick - fresh from being granted a work visa - was in the stands to watch his new side edge a five-goal thriller, courtesy of a Cristiano Ronaldo brace.
Carrick's brief reign as United boss saw the club unbeaten in three games, but there is clearly no room for the former England midfielder in Rangnick's new dawn.
United football director, John Murtough said, “Michael leaves with the sincerest thanks and best wishes of everyone at Manchester United after 15 years of exceptional service to the club as a player and as a coach. While we are sad to see him go, we respect and understand Michael’s decision.
“He will always be known as one of the finest midfielders in the history of Manchester United, and, more recently, as an excellent coach who has worked tirelessly under two managers to help develop the strong squad which Ralf will now take charge of.
“We are grateful for the steady leadership Michael has shown through this period of managerial transition, and, while he is now stepping away from day-to-day involvement, he will always be welcome back as a legend of the club.”
Carrick added, "My time at this great club will always rank as the best years of my career.
"When I first signed over 15 years ago, I never in my wildest dreams could have imagined winning so many trophies and I will certainly never forget the fantastic memories both as a player and as a member of the coaching team.
“However, after a lot of thought and deliberation, I have decided that now is the right time for me to leave the club. I want to place on record my thanks to all of the players and a special mention goes to the backroom staff, working long hours with such a great group of people has been a real pleasure and I have made some long-lasting friendships.
