As Manchester United prepare to embark on a new era with Ruben Amorim at the helm, an unexpected departure has already rocked supporters. Ruud van Nistelrooy, club legend and interim coach until recently, has been dropped from the staff by the new Portuguese coach, much to the dismay of many fans and former players, notably Rio Ferdinand. The latter was quick to criticise the Lusitanian coach and also the Red Devils.
Ruud van Nistelrooy, who left his mark on Manchester United’s history with 150 goals in 219 games, had recently taken on the role of interim coach following the departure of Erik ten Hag. With a record of three wins and one draw from four games, the Dutchman was hoping to continue alongside Ruben Amorim.
Despite his encouraging performances, the new manager preferred to put together his own staff, confirming Van Nistelrooy’s departure just after his arrival in England.
Van Nistelrooy had received the support of several players, including Matthijs de Ligt, who described him as “invaluable” because of his experience and knowledge of the club. But it seems that Ruben Amorim, surrounded by his assistants Carlos Fernandes, Adelio Candido and other trusted members, wants total control over his staff.
Sharp reaction from Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand
For Rio Ferdinand, the choice was a mistake. On his podcast Rio Ferdinand Presents, the former Manchester United defender did not mince his words. “His audition couldn’t have gone better and I think, 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 one way or another, or someone else is going to say we need you as manager.’”
Rio Ferdinand also spoke of the unique bond Van Nistelrooy had created with the players, and believes his presence brought stability at a time of transition for the club. “The players had come to really like him, they liked the way he informed them about different aspects – tactically, individually, as a team – and there was a real sense of ‘we want to do right by this guy’.”
For the former defender, Amorim’s decision could weaken that valuable link between staff and players. He believes that Van Nistelrooy had earned their respect and proved his effectiveness in just a few weeks. Rio Ferdinand then questioned the logic of parting company with someone so highly regarded in the dressing room. “We’re waiting for a manager to contact the players. We have one at the moment. Why are you going to get rid of him?
A desire for independence… but at what price?
Amorim’s decision, while understandable in terms of his desire to have his own staff, is not unanimously supported. It is all the more surprising at a time when Manchester United are trying to rebuild a united team after months of internal turmoil. With the arrival of Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS at the helm of the club, the new management seems to be advocating a clean break with the past, at the risk of depriving itself of iconic figures.
For Rio Ferdinand, the fear that Van Nistelrooy could become a “distraction” in times of difficulty is not a valid argument. On the contrary, he believes that the presence of an old hand at the club could have strengthened the cohesion of the team. “We have a coach here who knows the club, the players and who is able to convey what it means to play for United. His departure could create distance where closeness is needed,” he explains.
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