Bruno Fernandes broke down in tears as he bid farewell to Sporting Lisbon supporters.
Fernandes, 25, is on his way to Manchester United after a deal was finally agreed between the two clubs.
The Portuguese midfielder is set to undergo a medical and finalise personal terms, and could make his debut as early as this weekend.
Ahead of his flight to the UK, Fernandes took part in an emotional interview with Sporting TV where he was asked about his time with the club.
"There were important moments that made a mark on my career. I went through many positive things and many negative things," he said.
"I want people to remember me for the positives and I will always remember Sporting for the positives.
"The fans, the people who worked with me, the players, everything.
"Me and my family were always well-received, we had lots of kindness from everyone, nothing was ever missing.
"For the two and a half years I was here, I can only thank them for everything.
"I hope that you stay with good memories of me and I will always take you in my heart."
United will pay an initial £47m for Fernandes although the deal could rise to £67.6m.
"I'm delighted that we've agreed [the deal] with Sporting," said United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
"There have been good negotiations with the club and we know, through history, these two clubs have been good with each other.
