Ruud van Nistelrooy, a Manchester United legend and prolific striker known for his goal-poaching abilities across Europe, is currently deciding between two major management opportunities. On the one hand, Manchester United has approached him to join Erik ten Hag’s coaching staff, while Burnley is considering him for their new manager position after Vincent Kompany left the club for German powerhouse Bayern Munich.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Van Nistelrooy is a strong candidate to become Burnley’s new manager, replacing Kompany, and a decision is expected next week. It is up to the former Manchester United player to decide between a supporting role at Manchester United and a managerial position at Burnley.

Ruud Van Nistelrooy’s managerial career began with a decade as an assistant and youth coach for the national team and PSV. His senior career began in 2022 with PSV Eindhoven, where he won the Johan Cruyff Shield and the KNVB Cup before leaving due to a lack of backing from the club’s board.

 Manchester United’s interest in Van Nistelrooy stems from the Dutch manager, Erik ten Hag, who sees him as a valuable addition to his coaching staff and a major influence who can help United strikers return to scoring big. When Benni McCarthy joined the coaching staff, his influence could be seen on a number of players, including Marcus Rashford. However, Van Nistelrooy’s role is expected to be significantly larger than that of the South African forward.

 Van Nistelrooy achieved legendary status at Manchester United, where he scored 150 goals in 219 games between 2001 and 2006 as a victorious United team. During his time at United, he won the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup, cementing his legendary status at the club. His time at Manchester United will undoubtedly entice him to return and help the club win again.

In contrast, Burnley sees van Nistelrooy as the ideal successor to Vincent Kompany, who left for Bayern Munich. The Championship club is looking for a young, ambitious coach to guide them back to the Premier League following relegation. Van Nistelrooy’s recent performances and experience with the senior team in the Dutch League make him an appealing option for Burnley.