Ruben Amorim credits Ruud van Nistelrooy for Manchester United star’s outstanding form.
Ruben Amorim chose not to retain Ruud van Nistelrooy on his coaching staff after succeeding Erik ten Hag last month, but the new Manchester United manager has acknowledged the former striker's coaching talent.
Despite only managing the Red Devils for four matches, Ruud Van Nistelrooy made a significant impression.
The 48-year-old Dutchman remained unbeaten with three wins and one draw, which saw his reputation grow and made him Leicester City’s top choice to succeed Steve Cooper as their manager.
Recently unveiled as Leicester City’s new manager, Van Nistelrooy is set to make his debut in a Premier League match against West Ham at the King Power Stadium on December 3.
The former PSV Eindhoven boss will aim to make as strong an impact at Leicester as Ruben Amorim has at Manchester United.
Amorim has made an impressive start in what is arguably one of football’s most demanding roles at Old Trafford.
Despite the pressure, the 39-year-old has exceeded expectations.
He has led Manchester United to an unbeaten run in his first three matches, including a recent 4-0 demolition of Everton.
This victory boosted United to 19 points in the league, just four points shy of Brighton in fourth place.
Amorim’s influence extends beyond results. The Portuguese tactician has demonstrated why he is regarded as one of Europe’s most promising young managers.
Employing an unfamiliar 3-4-3 formation, he has introduced innovative tactics, including unique pre-match warm-ups, to energize the team.
His approach has revitalized underperforming players, most notably Ivorian winger Amad Diallo.
Amad, who signed with Manchester United four years ago, has struggled for consistent opportunities.
Although Ole Gunnar Solskjaer brought him to the club, it appears Amorim may be the manager to unlock his full potential.
According to Amorim, Van Nistelrooy deserves credit for laying the groundwork.
Amorim openly praised Van Nistelrooy’s role in Amad’s development.
In a recent interview with the BBC’s Match of the Day, Amorim said, “He [Amad] has immense talent, but he’s still developing.
Ruud van Nistelrooy helped him significantly in his brief time in charge, and now he’s helping me.”
Under Amorim’s leadership, Amad has emerged as one of United’s standout players.
The 22-year-old has directly contributed to three goals in his last three matches, including two assists in the recent victory over Everton.
Amorim’s decision to utilize Amad as a right wing-back has proven to be a masterstroke, enhancing both his defensive and offensive contributions.
Amad’s transformation highlights the stark contrast between his time under Amorim and former manager Erik ten Hag.
Under Ten Hag, the Ivorian struggled for game time, making just nine league appearances and accumulating only 388 minutes last season.
Ten Hag’s preference for Brazilian winger Antony, despite inconsistent performances, was a factor in his eventual dismissal.
Amad is now flourishing under Amorim’s system.
He has not only improved his defensive skills, making more tackles and winning more duels than he did under Ten Hag, but he has also earned significant fan support.
This newfound appreciation may play a pivotal role in securing a contract extension for the former Atalanta prospect.
Antony, while likely to receive opportunities under Amorim, faces stiff competition from Amad, who is currently thriving.
As United’s most in-form player, Amad’s resurgence underscores the transformative impact of Amorim’s leadership.
Meanwhile, Van Nistelrooy’s influence remains evident, both in Amad’s performances and in the confidence Leicester City has placed in him as their new manager.
