The Mexican striker was at the club when the legendary manager stepped down in 2013 and felt that his replacement David Moyes mistakenly tried to implement major changes at Old Trafford.

Speaking to FourFourTwo magazine, Hernandez said: "In my three years with him, when you went into Carrington, it felt like a family. Everyone was so happy to be there. The standards were so high, and everyone worked so well.

"Not only the players, coaching staff and physios, but the youth academy, the chefs, Kath (Phipps) on reception, rest in peace. It was a private environment. It felt like a fortress, but in a good way.

"When Sir Alex left, they thought the culture would stay the same, but it didn't. David Moyes came in and wanted to change everything."

'Chicharito' was "shocked" when Ferguson announced his retirement and felt that United should have "tried something different" on the managerial front once he left.

Hernandez said: "It was a shock. There had been rumours the day before in our group chat, but we found out when we arrived in Carrington the next morning. He explained that his wife's sister had passed away and he decided to step down.

"We all knew Manchester United were going to go through some tough moments."

He continued: "Trying to get another Sir Alex Ferguson was the wrong move, in my opinion. They should have tried something different. Sir Alex was way more than a manager. It was a crucial moment."

Hernandez gained a reputation as an impact substitute during his time at United and was happy to contribute to the club's achievements from the bench.

He said: "I'd rather be on the bench at Manchester United, as part of something wonderful, than be the number one somewhere else and not have the same impact."