Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has voiced his support for Ruud van Nistelrooy to take on a managerial role, suggesting that the Dutchman’s current position as interim manager could be a stepping stone to bigger things.
Van Nistelrooy, who returned to Old Trafford as Erik ten Hag’s assistant, was thrust into the hot seat following the latter’s dismissal.
Despite his brief tenure, the 48-year-old has impressed with his tactical acumen and passionate demeanor on the touchline.
However, with Ruben Amorim set to take over as the new permanent manager, Van Nistelrooy’s future at the club remains uncertain.
Scholes believes that the former striker’s ambition and experience make him a prime candidate for a managerial position elsewhere.
“He just looks like a manager,” Scholes said. “That passion there. He even dresses like a manager! He speaks well, doesn’t he? Nice and calm and relaxed. Goes about his business really, really well. I am pretty sure he must have the bug back to be a manager.”
Scholes added that Van Nistelrooy’s previous success as manager of PSV Eindhoven highlights his potential to lead a top-flight club.
He urged the Dutchman to seek a new challenge that would allow him to fully exercise his managerial abilities.
“When you have done it and been successful, as he was in Holland, going back to being an assistant, it must be quite difficult,” Scholes explained. “I think he should be a manager, he just looks like he is made to be a manager to me. I don’t think he should be anybody’s, not a puppet, but I think he is better than an assistant manager.”
As Van Nistelrooy prepares for his final game as interim manager against Leicester City, speculation surrounding his future will undoubtedly intensify.
