United finally officially announce the sacking of manager Louis Van Gaal

Reports of Van Gaal's departure initially broke on Monday morning, with stories suggesting that the 64-year-old and his coaching staff - who have left the club too - were informed of the decision by executive vice chairman Ed Woodward at 8:45am.

However, it was not until 8:30pm that the club officially released a statement on this.

Woodward said on the matter: "I would like to thank Louis and his staff for their excellent work in the past two years culminating in winning a record-equalling 12th FA Cup for the club (and securing him a title in four different countries). He has behaved with great professionalism and dignity throughout his time here. 

"He leaves us with a legacy of having given several young players the confidence to show their ability on the highest stage. Everyone at the club wishes him all the best in the future."

United are expected to appoint former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho as his successor, with his agent Jorge Mendes due to fly to Manchester for talks on Tuesday.​

Van Gaal expressed his disappointment at not being able to complete his contract but went on to thank the owners and board of Manchester United for giving him the opportunity to manage at the club. He thanked fans of the club branding them "the best fans in the world".

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

He finally expressed special thanks to club legends, Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Bobby Charlton for making him feel at home.