Ruud van Nistelrooy hasn’t just been linked with a return to Manchester United, the club legend has reportedly already been approached and talks are thought to be “advancing fast” as the rebuild under the INEOS regimecontinues.
Even more interestingly, it appears as though he may have dropped a few hints about where he sees his future going of late.
As first reported by Fabrizio Romano on Sunday, van Nistelrooy is said to have been approached by Man United and the recently rejigged executive team this month, with a look to have him join Erik ten Hag’s backroom staff ahead of next season.
Though Romano was the first person to report on the prospective van Nistelrooy-United reunion, the 47-year-old has been talking about potential next steps for his career as recently as March, and many fans are getting excited now they are understood to have advanced.
ADVERTISEMENT
As per The Mirror, van Nistelrooy was quoted as saying: “I have had offers from various clubs, also in my own country, but I would love to work in England or in Spain. I want to coach in a league where I have played because I speak the language fluently in those countries.
“In my opinion, I have gained plenty of experience. I have gone through the ranks. I did the younger youth teams at PSV, I was coach of the under-21s and subsequently became manager of the first team.”
ADVERTISEMENT
The ex-United and Real Madrid striker, who scored 150 goals in 219 games for the Reds, also went on to note how he helped a number of talented young players including CodyGakpo, Noni Madueke, Johan Bakayoko and Xavi Simons.
Speaking of youth talent, another interesting link has arisen from United’s ongoing pursuit of Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, who van Nistelrooy gushed over at length in his Coaches’ Voice ‘Masterclass’ episode, which spotlighted his significant win over Ajax in the Dutch Cup final.
While it remains unclear what the exact nature of the role would be, it’s clear that van Nistelrooy is more than confident in his own abilities and being a fellow compatriot of ten Hag could be a plus in the column to perhaps become his latest assistant coach.
ADVERTISEMENT
However, it could very well be the case that he turned down previous job offers as he’s waiting for a top job at a club in England or Spain as already hinted.
Furthermore, van Nistelrooy went on to add: “It matters to me that it is a well-organised club. I still want to work with young players, but ideally with a mixture of experienced professionals. I want to help them improve and bring a winning mentality. The latter is the most important thing. With my style of football.”
That being said, given it’s been a somewhat turbulent time for Man United recently – a team who are still very much in flux, have only recently confirmed that ten Hag will stay on as manager and are still yet to show a clear way of playing – this could equally cast doubts over a deal being struck.
Oscar Bobb loan interest ramps up as Manchester City look set to sign Antoine Semenyo
Danny Jones
Interest in Manchester City forward Oscar Bobb appears to be ramping up ahead of the January transfer window, with the club reportedly set to bring in another attacker come the New Year.
Yes, Antoine Semenyo might be on the verge of being the latest incoming, but his arrival could see a minimum of one name heading for the exit door.
According to several sources, there have been plenty of suitors for Oscar Bobb in the Premier League – including Newcastle United and Fulham – but it looks as though another big European team is currently leading the race for his signature.
Multiple outlets are stating that Borussia Dortmund’s pursuit of the Norwegian attacking midfielder/winger is looking the most advanced right now; meanwhile, Man City manager Pep Guardiola has been coy on the subject in his most recent press conference.
🚨🟡⚫️ “Oscar Bobb and Borussia Dortmund in talks? You can ask Oscar, not me…”, says Pep Guardiola. pic.twitter.com/8Al1ron62Q
While Germany looks to be the most likely destination, the 22-year-old’s utmost priority will surely be more regular football, with a hamstring injury having somewhat derailed his progress after making his debut as an academy graduate back in 2023.
Either way, it looks as though the Prem’s hottest prospect, Semenyo, has made up his mind.
Reliable transfer expert Fabrizio Romano shared an update on the situation this week, writing: “Antoine Semenyo, on the verge of joining Man City with deal at final stages. Agreement in place with the player after he indicated City as [his favoured] destination – club to club almost done.”
The Italian journalist has it that “Semenyo set to become first Man City’s [January] signing”, but it’s also worth noting that these two deals could set further transfers in motion besides just Bobb’s.
For instance, elsewhere, Tottenham Hotspur are supposedly considering a move for either one of two offensive, albeit still quite recent MCFC signings, Savinho and Omar Marmoush – though it has been reported that Pep is keen to keep the latter at the very least.
What do you see happening, Blues, and more importantly, who do you want to see stay or go?
Manchester Storm pays tribute to ‘cherished member’ of club family
Danny Jones
Local ice hockey side Manchester Storm and its supporters are paying tribute to team physiotherapist Cherry Woodhams, who has sadly died over the festive period.
Having become a recognisable face around the club and around the Storm Shelter at Planet Ice Altrincham, plenty of fans are now honouring and sharing stories about her.
Confirming the news on social media last weekend, MCR Storm wrote: “We are heartbroken to share the passing of Cherry Woodhams, our much-loved Team Massage Therapist and a cherished member of the Storm family.
Details around the Sale-based physio’s death remain private, but there has nevertheless been an outpouring of love and support following the announcement.
We are heartbroken to share the passing of Cherry Woodhams, our much-loved Team Massage Therapist and a cherished member of the Storm family.
Cherry played an essential role behind the scenes, helping our players recover from the intense physical demands of the sport.
“Cherry played an essential role behind the scenes, helping our players recover from the intense physical demands of the sport.
“Through her skill, care, and unwavering dedication, she supported muscle recovery, reduced stress, and helped prevent injury – always ensuring our players were ready to perform at their best. More than her expertise, Cherry’s warmth is what made her so special.
“She was trusted, respected, and deeply loved by all who had the privilege of working with her. Our thoughts are with Cherry’s family, friends, and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.
“We are grateful for the time we shared with her and for the lasting impact she leaves on our club and our hearts. Rest peacefully, Cherry. You will always be part of the Storm family.”
Storm supporters and ice hockey heads, in general, have been sending thoughts to the club, along with her friends and family.
As well as fellow British side Guilford Flames sending their condolences, others, such as the fitness and sports rehabilitation centre she worked with, commented: “The most wonderful person… we will miss her immensely in Apex Gym.”
Former Storm player Callum Fryer added, “Cherry helped me out tremendously while I was playing for the Storm. So sad to hear of her passing. Rest in Peace, Cherry.”
Even people who “had the pleasure of playing on the ice with her” themselves in the past took the time to pay their respects to the “lovely soul.”
We have no doubt those in and around the club will find a way to honour her properly at their next home game against Sheffield Steelers on New Year’s Day (5:30pm, 1 Jan 2026).
Our thoughts and condolences go out to the Manchester Storm family, as well as all those who knew and loved Cherry. RIP.
Danny Jones -
24th June 2024 
