Jose’s No 2 is moving out of Old Trafford

RUI FARIA, the trusted confidante and assistant of Jose Mourinho, is to leave Manchester United at the end of the season.

Faria, 42, who was linked with the manager’s post at Arsenal, wants to spend more time with his family before testing himself as a head coach and leaves with Mourinho’s blessing.

Faria has worked with Mourinho for 17 years and club captain Michael Carrick is an early contender to replace him after his shock departure.

The pair have enjoyed a tempestuous relationship, with Faria unafraid to exchange frank views or challenge Mourinho in front of staff at United and previously at Chelsea.

Faria said: ‘I have decided the time is right for me to move on.’