Manchester United’s interim manager, Ruud van Nistelrooy, believes there is hope for a season turnaround after United’s gritty 1-1 draw with Chelsea on Sunday. The former United star sees renewed spirit in the squad, even amid the turbulence following Erik ten Hag’s recent departure as head coach.
The draw, marked by Moises Caicedo’s equalizer for Chelsea after Bruno Fernandes converted an early penalty, spoiled United’s attempt at a morale-boosting win. However, Van Nistelrooy found positives, particularly in the team’s determination. “The spirit the players showed is a foundation to build on,” he said. “With that, the football qualities will come out.”
After Ten Hag’s sacking left United in a disappointing 14th place, Fernandes took accountability, acknowledging the players’ responsibility. “When a manager goes, players must take some blame,” Fernandes admitted. “I spoke with Ten Hag and apologized. I wasn’t scoring, and the team wasn’t performing.”
Van Nistelrooy has led the team through a difficult transition period, emphasizing that team spirit is the foundation for a comeback. “It’s been challenging, but we have a good base to work from,” he added. United moved up one spot to 13th with the draw, a small step in a long journey back to form.
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Not everyone shared Van Nistelrooy’s optimism. Former United midfielder Roy Keane expressed doubts, suggesting new head coach Ruben Amorim, who officially takes charge on Nov. 11, has a tough road ahead. “This is an average United team,” Keane commented. “It’s hit and miss. Amorim’s contract should have been longer because it’s going to take a lot to fix this team.”
United’s scoring struggles continue, with just nine goals in ten games—their lowest tally since the 1973-74 season. While Amorim has yet to step into his role, Van Nistelrooy has pledged full support, expressing a desire to stay on in some capacity. “We’ll back him fully to get Manchester United where it should be,” Van Nistelrooy affirmed.
United’s season has been fraught with inconsistencies and low scoring, but Van Nistelrooy’s faith in the players’ resilience provides hope for fans. As United prepares for the incoming Amorim era, supporters will watch to see if Van Nistelrooy’s foundation of “spirit” can spark a revival and restore the club’s glory.
