By John Thompson, Score More Sports Correspondent
Manchester, England
Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has raised concerns over new manager Ruben Amorim’s decision to let Ruud van Nistelrooy leave the club, warning that this move could upset players who had grown fond of the Dutch legend. Van Nistelrooy, who was brought back to Old Trafford this past summer as an assistant to then-manager Erik ten Hag, took over as interim boss after Ten Hag’s sacking just nine games into the Premier League season.
Amorim’s first major decision since taking charge was to inform Van Nistelrooy that he would no longer be part of the coaching team, a move the club confirmed on Monday. Van Nistelrooy’s short stint as interim manager left a positive impression, securing wins over Leicester City and PAOK, and a draw against Chelsea. Ferdinand shared his thoughts on his YouTube channel, expressing that Van Nistelrooy’s time in charge had been marked by a genuine bond with the players, who “had grown to really like” him and appreciated his direct, transparent communication.
“His audition couldn’t have gone any better,” Ferdinand commented. “Knowing him, there was a steely determination underneath that said, ‘I’m going to put myself in the best position, either to stay at the club in some capacity or for someone else to see I can manage.’ The players needed that, especially after the turmoil in the squad and the fractured relationships under the previous manager. They wanted to do well for him.”
Ferdinand’s comments reflect a larger sentiment that Van Nistelrooy, despite his brief tenure, had restored a sense of cohesion and morale within the team. Many United supporters and pundits had noted the more relaxed and positive atmosphere in the squad during his leadership.
Across the North Sea, Dutch football pundits were quick to weigh in. Dutch analyst Rene van der Gijp applauded Van Nistelrooy’s departure, suggesting he had preserved his legacy by avoiding the possibility of becoming Amorim’s “errand boy.” Van der Gijp argued that Van Nistelrooy’s decision to step aside on his terms was ultimately in his best interest: “He shouldn’t become the errand boy of some Portuguese. Now he’s going away a hero. Now he could come back as head coach.”
Veteran Dutch commentator Johan Derksen echoed this sentiment, noting that Van Nistelrooy’s status at Old Trafford was unparalleled. “It was done a bit hastily,” Derksen remarked, suggesting the club may have been too quick to part ways with someone who has a unique “aura” and deep connection to United’s storied past.
The shakeup leaves Amorim with the tall task of winning over a locker room that had seemingly rallied around Van Nistelrooy. With United languishing in the 13th spot on the Premier League table, Amorim’s decisions will be scrutinized as the club looks to salvage its season and return to its winning ways.
For now, though, Ferdinand’s comments signal the latest chapter of internal uncertainty at Old Trafford, with some players and fans left wondering if letting Van Nistelrooy go was truly the right choice. As the new era under Amorim unfolds, the stakes for both manager and players remain as high as ever.