Ruud van Nistelrooy expresses gratitude to fans. — Reuters
Ruud van Nistelrooy was disheartened to depart Manchester United after his fruitful tenure as interim coach concluded, but the Dutchman acknowledged the rationale behind new manager Ruben Amorim's decision to integrate his own assistants into the club. Van Nistelrooy, who was appointed as Leicester City's manager last month, remained undefeated in his four games at the helm of United following Erik ten Hag's dismissal, having previously served as his compatriot's assistant.
"I was disappointed, yes, deeply so, and it was painful to leave," he confided to reporters on Monday. "The only assistant role I would consider was at United due to the strong connection I share with the club's personnel and supporters. However, I eventually came to terms with it because I comprehend the new manager's perspective."
He continued, "I had a conversation with Ruben Amorim about it; it was a sincere, man-to-man, manager-to-manager exchange, which significantly aided in moving forward and immediately engaging in discussions about new opportunities, which uplifted my spirits."
Van Nistelrooy netted 150 goals during his illustrious five-year stint at United before transitioning to Real Madrid. The former striker asserted that his fighting spirit would be instrumental in aiding 16th-placed Leicester in avoiding relegation.
"People associate me with Real Madrid, Manchester United, but my initial three professional seasons were in Dutch football with FC Den Bosch, so I am well-versed in the art of struggle," he added. Leicester is set to host West Ham United in the Premier League later on Tuesday.
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