Ruud van Nistelrooy took charge of Manchester United on an interim capacity on Wednesday night, as we beat Leicester 5-2 in the League Cup.

After the game he revealed to the press that in his pre-match team talk he spoke to the players about the chants, the fans and what it means to play for United in a bid to motivate them following a difficult start to the campaign which has seen Erik ten Hag sacked.

My team talk, I’m standing in front of the team telling them about what Manchester United is about and what it is to play at Old Trafford. Telling them what songs are being sung by the fans and why. So, you try to transmit that feeling, that lovely feeling playing for this club.

It’s a proud moment sharing that with players, and what they were transmitting on the pitch, and the way it interacted with the supporters. Also towards me, it was unbelievable support and it only strengthens me to do the utmost, especially short term, for Chelsea.

He also confirmed that he had spoken to his former manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, before kick-off.

He wished me luck. We spoke shortly about my situation, shortly about the team and most of all he wished me luck for the game. It’s always great to speak to him.




------------
The RoM Manchester United 2024-25 season preview is now available. It includes articles from the country's best football writers about our expectations for the season ahead and our brightest talents, as well as proposed transfer business and which youth players to keep an eye out for. All profit goes to The Christie so please support this fantastic cause.