Ruud van Nistelrooy: Manchester United legend wants to be permanent manager in future after helping Ruben Amorim

React to this story

Ruud van Nistelrooy has admitted he would one day like to manage Manchester United on a permanent basis. An interim period in charge of the club has seen him pick up two wins and a draw, including the club's first win in Europe for over a year against Greek champions PAOK in the UEFA Europa League. The former United striker is hopeful he will stay as an assistant coach under Ruben Amorim.

Van Nistelrooy outlines ‘clear ambitions to manage’ but reiterates desire to assist Amorim

Video credit: SNTV

Ruud van Nistelrooy admitted he would one day like to manage Manchester United on a permanent basis, but insisted he is content to be an assistant coach under new boss Ruben Amorim.

The former United striker made his return to Old Trafford in the summer to join Erik ten Hag's coaching team, but the latter was sacked on October 28 and Van Nistelrooy took interim charge.

The Dutchman takes charge of the side for a fourth and final time this Sunday when United host Leicester in the Premier League.

Premier League

How to watch Forest v Arsenal on TNT Sports and discovery+

10/09/2025 at 16:42

They head into the game having won twice and drawn once under Van Nistelrooy. The Red Devils recorded a 2-0 win over Greek champions PAOK in the Europa League, the club's first victory in Europe for over a year.

When asked if he would like to manage the club he won multiple trophies with as a player, Van Nistelrooy told a press conference on Friday: "Yeah, of course.

"I thought this through well when I made the decision to come to United as an assistant manager or assistant coach. I knew that coming to Manchester United was for me a special occasion, where I felt I wanted to be part of this journey with the club in also an assistant role.

'It's time to get things turned around at Man Utd' - Van Nistelrooy

Video credit: TNT Sports

"I had clear ambitions to manage. I made the decision to sign a two-year deal as an assistant and I'm still in that frame of mind to stay in that capacity."

Van Nistelrooy's short-term tenure has led to a number of pundits, including TNT Sports expert and former United midfielder Paul Scholes, calling for him to take up a head coach role again.

"I called it an important period because I think it was important to get through the four games as good as we could," said Van Nistelrooy.

"I think we've done very well so far. The players have reacted very well in the games. The focus now is to build on that and show that on Sunday, with a big game ahead and a massive three points that are there to win.

"I don't know if it will be very emotional. I take it very pragmatically as well, although I am proud to be able to fulfil this. We'll see how I feel on Sunday."

Van Nistelrooy's contract at the club extends to 2026, but there is uncertainty if he will continue in Manchester with Amorim likely to bring his own set of staff from Sporting.

Sunday could be the Dutchman's second farewell if Amorim decides to rearrange the coaching team when he starts on Monday.

The Portuguese manager will have almost two weeks to prepare for his first match against Ipswich, but will be unable to work with many of the first team players on international duty during that period.

Stream the Premier League, UEFA Champions League and more on TNT Sports and discovery+.

Transfers

Grealish available for £40m, Man Utd’s Mbeumo move stalls – Paper Round

07/07/2025 at 23:50

Premier League

Man Utd complete signing of teenager Leon from Cerro Porteno

05/07/2025 at 12:03

Related Matches

Manchester United

Leicester City