Ruud van Nistelrooy lays down gauntlet to Man Utd stars after encountering 'challenge'

New Manchester United assistant manager Ruud van Nistelrooy has demanded that his new squad are as fit as possible ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.

The Dutchman returned to Old Trafford this summer to work under Erik ten Hag, and the former striker is already making an impact. The former Red Devils and Real Madrid forward is hoping to bring the very best out of the squad, may that be in terms of tactical nous or finishing.

Though Van Nistelrooy, along with fellow new United assistant Rene Heke, has revealed that he has set his sights on improving the initial fitness levels of the squad whilst in pre-season. Asked by MUTV about the importance of preparing the team whilst in Los Angeles, he said: “It is important, it’s also a challenge.

“Different players are coming in at different times, not all the players are in yet. Quite a few are not, still recovering after having the Euros and the Copa America. So it’s a challenge.

“But in the end, we want all the players to get as fit as they can and as well prepared on a team level and what is expected of them for when it (next season) starts in the Community Shield.”

Since heading into coaching in 2018, Van Nistelrooy has gained a reputation for his man-management style and desire to hold individual talks with players to explain his ideas and develop deeper connections.

Asked about how crucial those talks could be heading into next season, the former PSV manager explained: “Very important.

“On a collective level, it's important to get the different game phases into the team, what is expected in the pressing or in the build-up or in the mid-block or in all the phases of the game.