Ruud van Nistelrooy has shared his mixed feelings about stepping in as Manchester United’s interim manager following Erik ten Hag’s recent dismissal.
Also Read: Manchester United Fans Urge Ruben Amorim to Bring Viktor Gyokeres Along to Old Trafford
Ten Hag, who brought Van Nistelrooy back to United last summer as his assistant, was let go after 30 months, ending his tenure with two trophies but a struggling 2024-25 campaign.
United sit 14th in the Premier League, with a string of losses, including a 2-1 defeat to West Ham in what became Ten Hag’s final game in charge.
In his program notes ahead of United’s Carabao Cup clash against Leicester City, Van Nistelrooy acknowledged the “huge honour” of leading the club, even if temporarily, despite being saddened by Ten Hag’s exit.
He expressed gratitude to his former manager, saying, “I will always be grateful to him for giving me the opportunity, and I am saddened to see him leave.”
Manchester United is already exploring a permanent replacement, targeting Sporting Lisbon’s Ruben Amorim. However, Van Nistelrooy, who scored 150 goals for United as a player, is committed to stabilizing the team in the meantime.
He emphasized his dedication to helping the club regain its form, rallying both players and fans: “The first step is to restore the winning habit… I know first-hand the positive effect that our wonderful fans can have on the team.”
As United’s interim boss, Van Nistelrooy aims to instill confidence and discipline, guiding the team to capitalize on upcoming matches.
With tonight’s clash against Leicester marking his first game in charge, the former striker encourages supporters to “get behind the players as we fight together to move a step closer to Wembley.”
