“Welcome, everyone, to our press conference ahead of tomorrow’s Europa League game against PAOK. If you have a question, please specify if it’s for me or for Andre, and if you need translation, let us know. Let’s begin with Scott.”
Scott: “Ruud, it’s great to see Manoro back with the squad! He had about 15 minutes today and then some individual work. How’s he doing on his return to full fitness?”
Ruud van Nistelrooy: “Yes, he’s been managed well since his preseason injury, which was a lengthy one. It’s a big moment for him, the first time back with the team. We’ll gradually work him back into the squad over the coming weeks.”
Scott: “We saw Marcus doing some individual work before joining the main group—what’s the thinking behind that?”
Ruud van Nistelrooy: “That’s just part of his routine. He did some extra work on his own before joining the full session, but there’s no special update beyond that.”
Scott: “Have you had any contact with Ruben yet? Any congratulations to him?”
Ruud van Nistelrooy: “No, no contact so far, so nothing new on that front.”
Scott: “If you could have things your way, what would be your ideal scenario?”
Ruud van Nistelrooy: “Honestly, it’s hard to say. I’m focused on preparing for tomorrow’s game and making sure we’re doing our best day-to-day. The rest will happen when it’s meant to; my priority is ensuring this club is performing well.”
Scott: “It’s a big European night at Old Trafford, playing against the Greek champions who are currently second in their league. How are you feeling about that?”
Ruud van Nistelrooy: “I feel a strong responsibility to deliver good results this week, starting tomorrow. My focus is fully on the game, and everything else can wait.”
Scott: “How’s Tyrell Malacia progressing, and any updates on Luke Shaw, Kobbie Mainoo, or Harry Maguire?”
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Ruud van Nistelrooy: “Each is at a different stage. Tyrell is furthest along; he’s been in full team training for a couple of weeks now and could get some game time soon, possibly with the under-21s. Harry is still doing his rehab work indoors, and Luke is progressing with pitch work, hopefully joining partial team training soon.”
Scott: “Last season, we saw several injuries that disrupted things. Has there been any resolution on what caused those muscle issues?”
Ruud van Nistelrooy: “I can’t comment on that. My focus is on managing the players who are fit and available. It hasn’t been an easy few weeks, but the players showed resilience, especially in the Leicester and Chelsea games.”
Reporter: “Question for Andre: You worked closely with Erik ten Hag. Why do you think things didn’t work out for him here, and how did you feel about his departure?”
Andre Onana: “It’s tough for any player when a manager leaves, but that’s part of the club’s decision-making. I had a strong relationship with Erik; he’s a good manager. At this level, though, if we don’t win enough games, changes happen. Unfortunately, he had to go, but we all gave our best and worked hard.”
Reporter: “Ruud, we saw Ruben’s Sporting Lisbon team perform strongly last night. Do you think there’s enough in the Manchester United squad for him to replicate that success here?”
Ruud van Nistelrooy: “I’m fully focused on the present, so it’s difficult for me to comment on the future or how Ruben’s style will fit. My energy is on the current squad and getting results tomorrow and on Sunday.”
Reporter: “Manchester United has a rich European history, but it’s been quieter the last 10 years. Why do you think a club of this stature has struggled recently in Europe?”
Ruud van Nistelrooy: “That’s a big question! United still had recent European successes—the Europa League win under Mourinho, for instance. I’m here to help build on that tradition, and hopefully, we’ll get back to that level.”
Reporter: “Given the new manager’s arrival, has it been challenging to keep the players focused on the current games?”
Ruud van Nistelrooy: “Initially, before the Leicester and Chelsea games, it was a challenge because there was a lot of change. But things have settled, and everyone is concentrating on the next games. The goal is to play with passion and commitment tomorrow.”
Reporter: “Andre, did you watch Sporting’s game last night? How do you think United’s squad will adapt to Ruben’s high-intensity style?”
Andre Onana: “Yes, I watched it—great win for them. But I believe everyone here can adapt. We have experienced players who are adaptable to different systems, so I don’t see it as an issue.”
Reporter: “Ruud, as a former striker, what advice would you give to Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee, who haven’t had as many chances lately?”
Ruud van Nistelrooy: “Actually, I disagree that we aren’t creating enough chances. Statistically, we’re one of the top teams in creating opportunities; it’s the conversion that’s been the challenge. I’m not worried, though. These young players will grow in confidence, and the goals will come.”
Reporter: “What about Rasmus specifically? What does he need to do to reach the next level?”
Ruud van Nistelrooy: “Stay calm and believe in himself. He’s young, promising, and has a great work ethic. It’s all about daily effort and building confidence, and I’m confident he’ll reach that level.”
Greek Media Reporter: “Tomorrow’s game falls between two tough matches. How are you approaching it?”
Ruud van Nistelrooy: “It’s a high-priority game. We analyzed PAOK thoroughly; they’re a talented team, currently champions and second in Greece, with strong support. We’re prepared for a tough game.”
Andre Onana: “Ruud covered it well! We’re ready.”
Reporter: “Ruud, has there been a change in atmosphere since Erik left?”
Ruud van Nistelrooy: “It was tough when he left, of course. We tried everything together, and unfortunately, it didn’t work out. But now the players have shifted focus, and you can see it in our performances against Leicester and Chelsea. Emotions have settled, and everyone is concentrating on training and performing well.”
BBC Reporter: “One more on Rasmus—he’s been doing a lot of hold-up play lately. Do you want him positioned deeper or in the box more often?”
Ruud van Nistelrooy: “Most goals are scored in the box, so ideally, that’s where we want him. But it depends on the game. He’s effective at hold-up play, too, which helps get others involved. He’s a player who can change a game in an instant, so we’ll work on maximizing his impact.”
Ruud van Nistelrooy: “Thank you all for your questions.”