Van Nistelrooy’s pet project nets brace in 5-0 win ahead of Manchester United showdown

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Manchester United return to action in the Europa League this week, taking on FC Twente.

Do not let the date change catch you out. Manchester United play their first Europa League game of the season this week on Wednesday, rather than the usual Thursday.

The new look Europa League sees United face eight different opponents across a league phase, four at home and four away.

The first is a home fixture at Old Trafford against Dutch side FC Twente – the team Erik ten Hag supports.

How FC Twente are faring in 2024/25

FC Twente were knocked out of the Champions League qualifiers by Red Bull Salzburg in August, losing 5-4 on aggregate over two legs.

In the Eredivisie after six matches FC Twente currently rank fourth, winning three, drawing two and losing one.

They won their first game of the season before going three games without a win, and have now won their last two.

Last season they finished in third place in the division, behind only PSV Eindhoven and Feyenoord.

At the weekend Twente warmed up for their match with Manchester United in style, winning 5-0 away at relegation battling Almere.

Impressively they have conceded only five goals in five matches, suggesting they will be difficult opponents for United to break down.

They head to United full of confidence with little to lose, and they will be dangerous opponents for Erik ten Hag’s side to face.

Watch out for Sem Steijn

FC Twente’s first two goals at the weekend were scored by attacking midfielder Sem Stejn. In his last six matches, which include the Champions League qualifiers, Stejin has an impressive record.

Steijn has netted seven goals and has provided one assist in these six matches, showing that he will be a real dangerman for United to deal with.

The 22-year-old could be a real threat, and Manchester United coach Ruud van Nistelrooy has played a small part in his development.

Steijn explained his connection with Van Nistelrooy, with the legendary Dutch striker giving him some tips last season.

He told NU.nl: “I went on the field with him twice to work on my kicking.

“If you can learn something from anyone, it is from Ruud. It was very educational and I am very happy with that.

“We didn’t even shoot that many balls, but we looked more at what I do with which ball. What angle do you create for the goalkeeper and in what angle do you stand behind the ball?”

In the very next game, Steijn scored a hat-trick, and ended last season with 19 goals in 38 games.

The good news is Stejn should not catch United off-guard. Ruud van Nistelrooy will know all about him, and will be warning United to prepare carefully.

Whether United can actually stop him, is another matter, and given Erik ten Hag’s track record of signing Dutch players, Steijn will be eager to impress.