Van Nistelrooy: Today’s Feelings Weren’t a Farewell

Ruud van Nistelrooy remained on the pitch at Old Trafford after Manchester United’s 3-0 win over Leicester City on Sunday, in what was his last match as interim manager. However, the Dutchman said it was more about celebrating a great moment than a potential farewell.

According to Reuters, United achieved three wins and one draw across all competitions in the four games they played since Erik ten Hag’s dismissal, with van Nistelrooy taking temporary charge.

Van Nistelrooy said: “It wasn’t a goodbye. I felt like I was closing this chapter, and it was a wonderful moment. That was the beauty of it in my opinion; circumstances came together for a beautiful moment. I felt gratitude from my side, and the reception I received was incredible.”

Fans chanted his name in the final minutes of the match and then sang “Roooood!” as he made his way around the field after the final whistle.

With new coach Ruben Amorim arriving on Monday, van Nistelrooy has yet to know whether he’ll join the new coaching staff. He’s expected to find out later on Sunday or Monday.

Van Nistelrooy added: “I can’t describe that moment. It was an important end to four matches. The future is open—that’s how I felt. It was a beautiful moment to share with the fans. Yes, it was a special moment.”

United’s captain, Bruno Fernandes, had gone 17 matches without scoring under ten Hag, but he has scored four goals in four matches with van Nistelrooy, including United’s opening goal on Sunday.

The interim coach said: “A big part of his role was to bring stability to the team and instill confidence in the short time he had after a tough start to the season.”

The former United striker added: “When I took over as interim, I was aiming to stabilize things and continue playing in the way that the players were familiar with—about 80-85 percent of it—while making small adjustments, position changes, or resting players. That’s when you begin to find your identity and bring it to the training ground, regaining confidence.”