Ruud van Nistelrooy has once again become the central figure at Manchester United, nearly two decades after concluding his five-year tenure as the team's leading striker. The boots have long been retired, and he has exchanged the iconic red jersey for a tunic and long coat, yet it feels like old times as the Old Trafford crowd elongates his first name in a familiar chant. “Ruuuuuuuud” echoed through the stadium when he emerged from the tunnel to oversee his first match, guiding United to a crucial 5-2 Carabao Cup triumph over Leicester. Van Nistelrooy's team made a strong statement, but with Chelsea's impending visit on Sunday and a vital Europa League victory needed against PAOK four days later, the Dutchman is acutely aware that this is no leisurely return, even for someone who retains his hero status despite a contentious departure in 2006.
“I am here to assist, to contribute everything within my capabilities, just as many others do, to fight for this club,” Van Nistelrooy stated, who returned in July as Erik ten Hag's assistant. “The club is in a challenging position and it is not where we all envision it to be. The challenge is evident. Everyone is scrutinizing Manchester United and its current state, but it is up to us, the individuals on the ground, to do our utmost, supported by the fans. It is a process, something we must work towards and dedicate ourselves to.”
With Rúben Amorim set to join from Sporting during November's international break, the interim manager understands his role and timeframe, easing the pressure. Conversely, it presents Van Nistelrooy with an opportunity to demonstrate his value as part of the coaching staff. Ole Gunnar Solskjær might have believed he had little chance of securing the permanent manager position when he stepped in following José Mourinho's dismissal. The Norwegian benefited from being brought in from outside as United sought to stabilize with a legendary figure, whereas Van Nistelrooy has been on the sidelines all season behind Ten Hag, witnessing the team's struggles.
Van Nistelrooy shares similar ties to Solskjær's and spoke with Sir Alex Ferguson before his Old Trafford managerial debut, another iconic figure who evokes memories of better days. “It was special to return to the club and the city,” Van Nistelrooy remarked. “I enjoy being around Manchester, the players, and the staff – not many from my playing days remain. I chose to come back here for a significant reason: to serve as an assistant. I am here to help the club progress and I remain highly motivated to do so in any capacity. As an assistant and now as an interim manager, and afterward, I will revert to my assistant contract for this season and next.”
Van Nistelrooy followed a similar tactical approach to Ten Hag in the match against Leicester. This is not the moment for revolutionary strategies from him; that should be Amorim's domain. Pressure had been mounting before Ten Hag's tenure faltered at West Ham, and the players appeared more at ease against Leicester, but they recognize Sunday presents a far more formidable challenge.
“It will be a brief stint as an interim,” Van Nistelrooy acknowledged. “That was communicated clearly – I was content with that. I felt I was called upon to assist the club in its predicament and, of course, it was difficult, Erik had to leave, it was very disappointing, with mixed emotions, but you must shift your mindset to win. Ultimately, 75,000 people are waiting and celebrating, and millions are watching at home. That is what we strive to achieve and the same applies on Sunday, at least, and after that, we will see.”
This is not a trial for Van Nistelrooy, and his popularity will not diminish, regardless of the next three games, but he will aim to step aside as a legend, whether he returns to the shadows or exits Old Trafford to make way for Amorim's coaching staff. Unlike Lee Carsley during his tenure with England, he will not face questions about his desire for the job because everyone knows what lies ahead and when.
Van Nistelrooy discovered during his time at PSV the intricacies of managing a club he knows well. He will somehow need to balance the joy of having his dream job with the awareness of its temporary nature and the necessity to secure results to leave United in a stronger position.
Source link: https://www.theguardian.com
