Former Manchester United player and interim manager, Ruud van Nistelrooy, is reportedly being considered for a surprising return to one of his former clubs as he searches for his next managerial opportunity.
This development follows Ruben Amorim’s decision not to retain van Nistelrooy as part of the Old Trafford coaching staff after Erik ten Hag’s departure.
During his brief stint as interim manager, van Nistelrooy led Manchester United to an impressive unbeaten record, securing three wins and a draw in four matches, including a solid result against Chelsea.
Despite his success, he was excluded from Amorim’s reshaped coaching team.
According to Sky Germany, van Nistelrooy is now being eyed for the managerial vacancy at Hamburg, a club where he played for a season between 2010 and 2011, scoring 17 goals in 44 appearances.
Hamburg recently parted ways with Steffen Baumgart following a 2-2 draw with Schalke, leaving the club eighth in the 2. Bundesliga standings.
Given van Nistelrooy’s familiarity with the club and his growing managerial reputation, he is seen as a strong candidate 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.”