Van Nistelrooy linked with former club return after Man United exit

Former Manchester United player and interim manager, Ruud van Nistelrooy, has been linked with a surprising return to one of his former clubs as he actively seeks his next managerial role.

This development comes just weeks after Ruben Amorim decided not to retain him on the Old Trafford backroom team.

Van Nistelrooy, who stepped in as interim manager following Erik ten Hag’s dismissal, led Manchester United to an impressive unbeaten record during his short tenure.

In four matches, the Dutchman secured three victories and a draw, including a credible result against Chelsea. Despite his success, he was not included in Amorim’s plans for his restructured coaching setup.

Reports from Sky Germany on Sunday suggest that Van Nistelrooy is now being considered for the managerial vacancy at Hamburg, a club he briefly represented during his playing career.

The prolific striker spent a season at the German side between 2010 and 2011, netting 17 goals in 44 appearances.

Hamburg recently parted ways with Steffen Baumgart following a 2-2 draw with Schalke, which left the team eighth in the 2. Bundesliga standings.

Van Nistelrooy’s familiarity with the club and his growing reputation as a manager make him a strong contender for the role.

“Before his role as an assistant coach at Manchester United, van Nistelrooy was the head coach at PSV Eindhoven. Intriguingly, Sky reports that he was already a strong candidate for the HSV coaching job earlier this year, before the club ultimately chose Baumgart in February. Former HSV sporting director Jonas Boldt even held discussions with van Nistelrooy at the time. The Dutchman also had a brief stint observing at HSV in December 2014 as part of his coaching education,” Sky Germany reported.

Following his departure from Manchester United, Van Nistelrooy shared an emotional message on X, expressing his gratitude and reflecting on his time with the club.

“To everyone at Manchester United Football Club, in particular the backroom staff, the players and the fans. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your incredible efforts and support,” he wrote.

“It has been a privilege and honour to represent the club as a player, coach, and manager, and I will always cherish the memories we have shared together.

“Man United will always have a special place in my heart, and I hope there are many more glory days at Old Trafford very soon—not only because I want the club to do well, but because you all deserve it! All the best and take care, Ruud.”