Benni McCarthy sends heartfelt message to Man United star after Old Trafford exit

Benni McCarthy has sent a heartfelt message to one Manchester United star as his Old Trafford exit has been confirmed.

McCarthy, 46, joined United in the summer of 2022 as a striker coach under then-new manager Erik ten Hag.

The former FC Porto centre-forward was credited with helping Marcus Rashford during the 2022/23 campaign, where the Englishman bagged 30 goals in all competitions.

Like for everyone at the club, praise was few and far between during the last season, where United underwhelming but still managed to win the FA Cup at the end of it.

Ten Hag had his new contract at Old Trafford confirmed earlier this week, with the Dutchman set to stay until the summer of 2026 and new coaches are expected to join.

Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake are both closing in on their moves to the club to join Ten Hag’s staff and McCarthy will be one of those to leave as part of this reshuffle.

According to The Athletic, the attacking coach left his position at the end of last month when his contract expired.

It was explained that the South African has aspirations to become a manager again and had a positive relationship with many of the United players and enjoyed his time at Old Trafford.

That was shown in his reaction to Lisandro Martínez’s success this week as the Argentine helped his country to the Copa America semi-finals after scoring his first international goal against Ecuador.

“On to the semis! Huge work from everyone to take one more step,” wrote Martínez on Instagram. “Very happy for my first goal with the national team. Now, to follow for more!!”

In the comments, McCarthy responded with a touching message, “Congratulations good brother, very happy for you and your national team. What a great header. Strong hug.”

United’s pre-season starts on Monday and those at international tournaments will have staggered returns before the 2024/25 Premier League season begins.

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