Ruud van Nistelrooy says he would like to take over as Manchester United manager permanently in the future, but wants to return to his role as assistant coach when Ruben Amorim takes over on Monday.
The former United striker returned to Old Trafford in the summer to work under Erik ten Hag, but took over on an interim basis when his Dutch compatriot was sacked on October 28.
United have won twice and drawn once under Van Nistelrooy, who takes charge of the team for the fourth and final time on Sunday when they host Leicester in the Premier League.
The 48-year-old won the Dutch Cup in his only season as coach of PSV Eindhoven.
Van Nistelrooy has repeatedly stated that Manchester United is the only club where he would put aside his coaching ambitions by accepting an assistant role.
Asked if he would one day like to manage the 20-time English champions, Van Nistelrooy replied: “Yes, of course.
“I thought this through when I made the decision to come to United as an assistant manager or assistant manager. I knew that coming to Manchester United was a special occasion for me, where I felt I wanted to be part of this journey with the club also in assistant quality.
“I had clear ambitions to manage. I made the decision to sign a two-year contract as an assistant and I am still in that frame of mind to remain in that capacity.”
Van Nistelrooy is contracted to United until 2026 but questions have been raised over his future with Amorim set to bring in his own staff.
While Sunday could end up being his second farewell at Old Trafford, the Dutchman has maintained that his focus is solely on handing the team over to Amorim in the best possible shape.
“I considered it an important period because I think it was important to get through the four games as best we could,” Van Nistelrooy said.
“I think we have done very well so far. The players have reacted very well in the games. The goal now is to take advantage of that and show it on Sunday, with a great game ahead of us and three huge points that are there to win. win.
“I don’t know if it will be very emotional. I also take it very pragmatically, although I am proud to be able to fulfill it. We will see how I feel on Sunday.”
