Former Manchester United striker, Ruud van Nistelrooy, is already making waves as an assistant coach in the Red Devils’ training sessions! 🏟️ Known for his lethal finishing and sharp football mind, Van Nistelrooy is injecting fresh energy and tactical acumen into the squad. Players are reportedly thrilled with his hands-on approach and insightful guidance. Fans can expect a reinvigorated attacking strategy, reminiscent of Van Nistelrooy’s glory days at Old Trafford. Stay tuned for more updates on his journey back at United! 🔴⚽
Ruud van Nistelrooy is poised to significantly influence Manchester United’s training sessions as they prepare for the 2024/25 season. Appointed as Erik ten Hag’s assistant manager earlier this summer, the Dutchman is already making his presence felt on the training ground.
Van Nistelrooy, 48, brings valuable experience from his time managing PSV Eindhoven between 2022 and 2023. His fresh perspectives and expertise are expected to be a tremendous asset to Ten Hag’s team.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Old Trafford decision-makers made a shrewd move by bringing back a club legend. Van Nistelrooy, one of the top strikers in Manchester United’s history, scored 150 goals in 219 appearances. His sharp goal-scoring instincts could greatly benefit the current forwards at the club.
### Van Nistelrooy’s Impactful Training Sessions
The Dutch coach has taken a hands-on approach in training, evident from videos showing him leading various drills. Known for his clinical finishing, Van Nistelrooy’s influence is anticipated to enhance the efficiency of players like Marcus Rashford, Rasmus Hojlund, and Joshua Zirkzee in front of goal.
In one instance, Van Nistelrooy’s vocal encouragement for Rashford to “quicken it up” resulted in the winger cutting inside and scoring a powerful goal. Van Nistelrooy’s expertise in taking early shots to surprise goalkeepers is a skill he aims to instill in the forwards.
Another session focused on wing play, emphasizing the importance of effective flank utilization. In this drill, Van Nistelrooy had his players participate in a small-sided game where double points were awarded for goals created from wide areas.
Sky Sports reporter Melissa Reddy, covering United’s training camp in the USA, reported: “Ruud van Nistelrooy was overseeing an attacking drill that focused on repetitive patterns.” Fans can be optimistic about the attacking prowess Van Nistelrooy is instilling in the team.
### Benefits for Rashford and the Squad
Manchester United struggled with goal-scoring last season, with Bruno Fernandes and Rasmus Hojlund each scoring only 10 league goals. The club’s supporters, accustomed to prolific scorers like Van Nistelrooy, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Wayne Rooney, have noticed a decline in standards.
Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho, who scored seven league goals each last season, are expected to improve under Van Nistelrooy’s guidance. The focus on wing play in training could also boost their assist numbers, translating to greater success during matches.