**Van Nistelrooy Departs Manchester United**

Tecfai Editorial Team

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Post on Nov 12, 2024

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Van Nistelrooy Departs Manchester United: A Legacy of Goals and Controversy

The departure of Ruud van Nistelrooy from Manchester United in 2006 marked the end of an era for the club. While his four years at Old Trafford were filled with goals and trophies, they were also marked by a certain level of controversy. Let's delve into the Dutchman's legacy at the club.

A prolific goalscorer and a key part of the "Class of '92"

Van Nistelrooy joined Manchester United in 2001 from PSV Eindhoven, where he had established himself as one of Europe's most prolific strikers. His arrival coincided with the emergence of the "Class of '92" – a group of young, talented players who had come through the club's academy – and together they formed the core of a team that would dominate English football in the early 2000s.

He quickly became a fan favorite at Old Trafford, scoring goals with remarkable consistency. In his first season, he netted 23 goals in the Premier League, a feat that would later be surpassed by his 36-goal haul in the 2002-03 season, a season that saw him score five hat-tricks. Van Nistelrooy became known for his powerful finishing, his ability to find space in the penalty box, and his clinical finishing, which saw him rack up a staggering 150 goals in just 219 appearances for the Red Devils.

A strained relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson

Despite his prolific scoring record, Van Nistelrooy's relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson, the Manchester United manager, was far from harmonious. There were numerous reports of disagreements and clashes between the two, and eventually, things reached a breaking point.

The 2005-06 season saw a downturn in van Nistelrooy's form, and he was often left out of the starting lineup by Ferguson. Reports suggested that the player's attitude was causing problems in the dressing room, and there were rumors of a strained relationship with his teammates.

In the summer of 2006, Van Nistelrooy's departure was finally announced, with the striker joining Real Madrid in a controversial transfer. His time at Manchester United ended on a sour note, with both player and manager seemingly unhappy with the situation.

A lasting legacy

Despite the controversies, Van Nistelrooy's contribution to Manchester United cannot be understated. He was a key player in a golden era for the club, scoring crucial goals and helping them win trophies. His prolific goalscoring record and iconic status at the club ensure that he will be fondly remembered by Manchester United fans for years to come.

However, his legacy at Old Trafford is not without its blemishes. The controversies surrounding his departure and the strained relationship with Ferguson will likely be part of the discussion when his time at Manchester United is remembered. Ultimately, Van Nistelrooy's legacy at Manchester United is a complex one, filled with both remarkable achievements and unresolved tension.