As Manchester United prepares for a new era under incoming manager Rúben Amorim, uncertainty looms over the future of interim coach Ruud van Nistelrooy. However, goalkeeper André Onana has voiced the squad’s overwhelming support for the Dutch legend to remain part of the club’s restructured management team.
Van Nistelrooy’s Impressive Interim Stint
Since stepping into the role following the dismissal of Erik ten Hag, Van Nistelrooy has guided the Red Devils to an unbeaten run in his three games at the helm. The crowning achievement of his brief tenure came on Thursday night, as United secured a 2-0 victory over PAOK in the Europa League – their first European win in over a year.
Onana: “Players Are 100% Behind Van Nistelrooy”
Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Onana made it clear that the entire Manchester United squad hopes to see Van Nistelrooy continue his work at the club. The Cameroonian shot-stopper praised the interim coach’s impact, stating:
“100%. He’s a very good guy, a very good coach. He has so much experience, and he advises us a lot. It’s fantastic what he’s doing, and the players are happy.”
André Onana, Manchester United goalkeeper
Despite the players’ wishes, Onana acknowledged that the final decision rests with the club’s hierarchy. “At the end of the day, it’s not something we can decide,” he admitted. “The club make the decision, and we have to accept it.”
Van Nistelrooy Focused on Final Game
With his interim role set to conclude on Sunday following United’s Premier League clash against Leicester City, Van Nistelrooy remains focused on the task at hand. The former United striker emphasized his commitment to preparing the team for his final game in charge.
“I’m only busy with one thing in my mind. I want my last game as an interim, I want to prepare it as good as I can and give the players everything they need to get the best performance out of them.”
Ruud van Nistelrooy, Manchester United interim coach
When pressed about his future beyond Sunday, Van Nistelrooy maintained his pragmatic approach. “Other than that, I don’t look too far ahead, to be really honest,” he stated.
Amorim Era on the Horizon
As Rúben Amorim prepares to take the reins at Old Trafford, speculation mounts over the potential changes he may bring to the club. The highly-rated Portuguese coach, who led Sporting CP to the Primeira Liga title last season, is expected to oversee a significant overhaul of the squad and playing style.
While the fate of Van Nistelrooy and other members of the current coaching staff remains uncertain, one thing is clear: the Manchester United players are fully behind the Dutch icon and hope to see him continue his work alongside Amorim.
As the Red Devils navigate this period of transition, the coming weeks and months will be crucial in shaping the club’s future. With the unwavering support of the squad and an impressive track record during his brief stint as interim coach, Ruud van Nistelrooy has undoubtedly made a strong case for his inclusion in Manchester United’s new era under Rúben Amorim.
