Eighteen years and eight days after Sir Alex Ferguson announced Ruud van Nistelrooy wanted to leave Old Trafford, news broke of a potential dream return.
The 47-year-old striker-turned-manager is a legendary figure at Manchester United, having contributed 150 goals in his five years at the club.
To this day, the Dutchman is one of the finest finishers ever to have graced the Premier League, with a legacy embedded into the walls of the Theatre of Dreams.
Since resigning from his position at PSV Eindhoven, the former hitman is in demand and – according to reports – has been offered a crucial coaching position in Manchester.
What do we know
Transfer mogul Fabrizio Romano broke the news of United’s interest on Sunday afternoon.
Van Nistelrooy departed his managerial post with Eredivisie giants PSV with a game remaining in the 2022-23 season, citing a lack of support as his reasoning.
Recent accounts have suggested that newly-relegated Burnley were keen to lure him back to England as a replacement for Vincent Kompany following his surprise appointment at Bayern Munich.
But, despite the prospect of returning to management, the allure of a return to Old Trafford appears to be the desired option.
Dutch outlet AD has joined Romano in suggesting the 2022–23 KNVB Cup winner has been offered the assistant manager role alongside Erik ten Hag.
A statement of intent from the Ineos chief
When Sir Jim Ratcliffe assumed control of footballing matters at the club, his desire to establish a best-in-class team shone front and centre.
With deals for figures like Jason Wilcox, Omar Berrada and Dan Ashworth either completed or in the final stages of negotiations, a play for former fan-favourite Van Nistelrooy suggests a savvy decision.
Not only would the move present a welcome reunion in principle, but the prospect of pairing the Oss native with a tactically similar chief in Ten Hag is the definition of a powerplay.
Furthermore, it is an ingenious way for the billionaire to endear himself to a fragile group of supporters with fingers and toes crossed for change.
Far more than a legendary striker
The two-time Dutch footballer of the year worked his way through Rood-Witten’s youth academies.
He excelled as a U17 striking coach and U19 manager- while acting as an assistant to Guus Hiddink at the 2014 World Cup.
Inevitably, his tactical pedigree shone through, and he replaced Roger Schmidt as PSV’s head coach in March 2022.
Under his guidance, the side lifted the 2023 Johan Cruyff Shield before claiming an 11th Dutch Cup.
His philosophy resembles Ten Hag, with an attack-minded approach accompanying a high-pressing desire.
He left Philips Stadion with an impressive win rate of 64.71% – marginally failing to seal a league title.
One notable topic for consideration is the time Jarrad Branthwaite spent at PSV under Van Nistelrooy’s watch. He is a player highly regarded by the Dutchman and one that accommodates his tactical ploy.
How do you feel about the prospect of a return for the iconic striker? Let us know in the comments or through our socials.
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