‘Devastated’ van Nistelrooy’s ex-teammate fires Amorim warning after Dutchman’s sacking

Manchester United coach Ruben Amorim. Photo: Imago

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Manchester United coach Ruben Amorim. Photo: Imago

‘Devastated’ van Nistelrooy’s ex-teammate fires Amorim warning after Dutchman’s sacking

Ayoola Kelechi 23:50 - 16.11.2024

The ex-Manchester United striker and interim boss is reportedly hurt after being let go by new Red Devils' manager Ruben Amorim

Manchester United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy has reportedly been left heartbroken after his interim managerial stint came to an abrupt end.

Despite an unbeaten run and strong support from fans, the Dutchman was not retained by new manager Ruben Amorim, sparking a wave of reactions from those close to him.

Van Nistelrooy’s short but successful stint with Manchester United

After Erik ten Hag's dismissal, van Nistelrooy stepped into the interim role, guiding Manchester United to three wins and a draw in four matches.

A Ruud awakening at Manchester United under van Nistelrooy.

His tenure culminated in a commanding 3-0 victory over Leicester, earning praise from fans, players, and pundits alike.

The former striker expressed his desire to remain at Old Trafford, even as an assistant under Amorim, but the new manager chose to bring in his own team.

Ruud van Nistelrooy wanted his Manchester United stars to play with pride at Old Trafford.

This decision reportedly left Van Nistelrooy "devastated," as he had hoped to continue contributing to the club he holds dear.

Van Nistelrooy’s ex-teammate fires Amorim warning

Andre Ooijer, Van Nistelrooy’s former PSV Eindhoven colleague and a close confidant, shed light on the Dutchman’s disappointment.

Andre Ooijer and Ruud van Nistelrooy playing for the Netherlands | Imago
Andre Ooijer and Ruud van Nistelrooy playing for the Netherlands | Imago Andre Ooijer and Ruud van Nistelrooy playing for the Netherlands | Imago

Speaking to the Mirror, Ooijer highlighted Van Nistelrooy’s loyalty and his achievements under challenging circumstances, saying, “Ruud wanted to stay as assistant. He would have said something if he wasn't interested in working with Amorim.

“You could tell the fans liked him so much. You only had to watch how they reacted to him after his last match. He did so well under difficult circumstances. He has stayed unbeaten as a manager"

Van Nistelrooy took charge at Man United || Imago

Ooijer also issued a warning to Amorim, adding, "If Amorim does not get the right results in the first few games, the crowd could start calling again for Ruud."

Van Nistelrooy’s brief yet impactful stint with the Red Devils and the overwhelming fan support he garnered could loom over Amorim as he prepares for his debut against Ipswich on November 24. Whether the new boss can navigate the pressure and meet expectations remains to be seen.