Ruud van Nistelrooy 'doesn't want to manage Man Utd' after Erik ten Hag sacked

Ruud Van Nistelrooy is reportedly hesitant to step into the role of Manchester United's permanent manager, succeeding Erik ten Hag, due to concerns of betraying his friend.

Following a devastating loss to West Ham United on Sunday, Ten Hag was dismissed from his position at United. The defeat left the team in a disappointing 14th place in the Premier League and marked the end of Ten Hag's tenure at Old Trafford.

With only one victory in their last eight matches across all competitions, United has become the butt of jokes in English football. The club confirmed in an announcement that Van Nistelrooy will be taking over as caretaker manager.

LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 27: Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag during the Premier League match between West Ham United FC and Manchester United FC at London Stadium on October 27, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Rob Newell - CameraSport via Getty Images) (Image: CameraSport via Getty Images)

Van Nistelrooy, who was appointed as Ten Hag's deputy earlier this year, is well-liked by the team. Despite his limited experience in leading roles, the ex-United star understands what it takes to thrive at Old Trafford.

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However, sources from the Netherlands suggest that Van Nistelrooy would be unwilling to fill Ten Hag's shoes, viewing it as a potential betrayal of his close friend. This development further narrows down United's choices for a new permanent manager.

Former England manager Gareth Southgate is currently on a prolonged hiatus from football, Inter Milan's Simone Inzaghi has no interest in relocating to Manchester, and Thomas Tuchel has accepted the England job.

Van Nistelrooy's first match as United's interim manager will be against Leicester City in the League Cup on Wednesday, followed by a home game against Chelsea at Old Trafford on Sunday.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 18: (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE) Manager Erik ten Hag, Assistant manager Ruud van Nistelrooy of Manchester United in action during a first team training session at Carrington Training Ground on September 18, 2024 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images) (Image: Manchester United via Getty Images) Stay up-to-date with the latest Man Utd news Join us on WhatsApp

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United confirmed the exit of Erik ten Hag, with an official statement saying: "Erik ten Hag has left his role as Manchester United men's first-team manager.

"Erik was appointed in April 2022 and led the club to two domestic trophies, winning the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024."

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"We are grateful to Erik for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future.

"Ruud van Nistelrooy will take charge of the team as interim head coach, supported by the current coaching team, whilst a permanent head coach is recruited."

Ruud van Nistelrooy 'doesn't want to manage Man Utd' after Erik ten Hag sacked

Ruud van Nistelrooy 'doesn't want to manage Man Utd' after Erik ten Hag sacked

Ruud van Nistelrooy 'doesn't want to manage Man Utd' after Erik ten Hag sacked

Ruud van Nistelrooy 'doesn't want to manage Man Utd' after Erik ten Hag sacked

Ruud van Nistelrooy 'doesn't want to manage Man Utd' after Erik ten Hag sacked