The Shocking Departure That Furious a Star
Former Manchester United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy prompted a furious reaction from one of his key players when he suddenly quit his job as manager of PSV Eindhoven. The Dutch striker, who began his managerial career with the Eredivisie side, left his position after just one season in charge between July 2022 and May 2023.
Sangare's Remarkable Reaction and Aftermath
Midfielder Ibrahim Sangare was so angered by the news of van Nistelrooy's departure that he had to be persuaded to return to the club's training ground. ESPN journalist Milan von Dongen revealed at the time, "They had to get him out of there to get him back. He was furious about van Nistelrooy's departure." This strong reaction highlighted the divided feelings within the PSV squad about the manager's exit.
Van Nistelrooy's sole season at the helm was notably successful on paper. He guided PSV to a runners-up spot in the Eredivisie and secured the Dutch Cup. Despite this triumph, he left following a disagreement with the club's hierarchy.
Shortly after the managerial upheaval, Sangare himself secured a move away from the Netherlands. The Ivory Coast international was sold to Premier League side Nottingham Forest, where he remains and even scored his first goal for the club in a 3-1 win over Leeds United prior to the November international break.
Van Nistelrooy's Rollercoaster Managerial Ride
Just over a year after his PSV departure, van Nistelrooy returned to Manchester United, becoming assistant manager to Erik ten Hag. However, this role was short-lived. Following Ten Hag's dismissal just over three months later, the former striker took temporary charge of the team for four fixtures.
United remained undefeated in those four games, securing wins against Leicester City (twice) and PAOK, and drawing with Chelsea. Despite this strong interim record, incoming manager Ruben Amorim chose not to retain van Nistelrooy in his backroom staff.
Van Nistelrooy's next move saw him take charge at Leicester City with the mission of keeping the club in the Premier League. His tenure, however, was difficult. In his 27 games managing the Foxes, the team secured only five victories and three draws. They finished the campaign in 18th place, resulting in the Dutchman's dismissal this summer.
His time at Leicester was further marred by criticism from striker Odsonne Edouard, who was on loan from Crystal Palace and failed to make a single appearance under him. Edouard told L'Equipe, "Being a great striker doesn't necessarily mean being a great coach... I didn't get along well with van Nistelrooy. I found myself blocked for seven months without playing."
Van Nistelrooy has remained without a club since leaving Leicester, having been linked with the FC Twente position in September before it was filled by John van den Brom.
