Paul Scholes finally reacts to Ruud van Nistelrooy’s return to Old Trafford, Man Utd legend makes his feelings clear

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Paul Scholes has finally dropped his telling verdict on former Manchester United teammate Ruud van Nistelrooy returning to Old Trafford this summer.

Ruud van Nistelrooy was a Manchester United fan favourite during his prolific playing career at Old Trafford under legendary former manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

The 48-year-old Dutchman was widely revered for his clinical finishing, with the former striker scoring an impressive 150 times in 219 appearances for United.

Van Nistelrooy lifted a Premier League title, an FA Cup and a League Cup during his remarkable five seasons at United under Sir Alex Ferguson.

He entered the world of coaching after his playing career ended in 2012 and took his first steps into management in 2022 with Dutch side PSV Eindhoven.

Van Nistelrooy led PSV Eindhoven to a Dutch Cup before the United legend made the decision to resign from his role before the end of the 2022-23 season.

The ex-Real Madrid striker waited patiently on the sidelines before making his return to coaching at United, despite attracting other opportunities in England.

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Scholes on Van Nistelrooy’s return to Man Utd

Erik ten Hag has seen a shake-up to his coaching staff this summer after the arrivals of Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake as his new assistant managers.

Van Nistelrooy took part in the pre-season tour with the Red Devils in the United States and his return to Old Trafford has been welcomed with open arms by fans.

Paul Scholes played alongside Van Nistelrooy in his legendary playing career and waxed lyrical about the Dutchman’s remarkable qualities as a player.

The 49-year-old former Manchester United midfielder welcomed Van Nistelrooy’s return to the club and believes he will be a valuable asset to Erik ten Hag’s players.

“It’s great to have him around the squad, back at the club,” he told Manchester United’s official website.

“Obviously, he’s done his own coaching stuff and managed as well, and not only him but Darren Fletcher as well.

“Man United players who were there when they were successful; know how to win, know what it takes and, hopefully, they can transfer a bit of knowledge to these players who haven’t quite made it yet.”

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Van Nistelrooy on Man Utd return

United’s pre-season tour concluded on Sunday with a 3-0 defeat to Premier League rivals Liverpool at the Williams-Brice Stadium in South Carolina.

The Red Devils have now turned their attention to the Community Shield clash against Premier League champions Manchester City on Saturday at Wembley.

Erik ten Hag’s men will then kick off their 2024-25 Premier League season by hosting Fulham at Old Trafford on 16th August.

Van Nistelrooy welcomed his return to Old Trafford and admitted that he “couldn’t refuse” the opportunity to become assistant manager at United.

“It’s special to be back, to be fair,” he told Manchester United’s official website.

“I mean, when United first came in with the opportunity to become assistant manager, it was fantastic.

“I never thought of it, but when it occurred, it was something that I couldn’t refuse, with the role that I was going to fill.

“Of course, then [I was] flying into Manchester, [seeing] Carrington and Old Trafford and town and how much changed and how much is still the same. So, it’s special. It’s very special to be back.”