Ruud Van Nistelrooy believes that Manchester United need a reliable, experienced goal scorer if they’re serious about competing with Europe’s top clubs.
Right now, United’s goal tally is surprisingly low—only Crystal Palace and Southampton have scored fewer in the Premier League this season. This is despite the club investing around £110 million in young strikers Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee under manager Erik ten Hag. Between them, the pair has scored only three goals so far.
Van Nistelrooy, who knows all about leading United’s attack from his time as a player (scoring 150 goals in 219 games), has recently returned to the club as a coach. After Ten Hag’s departure, Van Nistelrooy stepped in as caretaker manager. Reflecting on United’s current squad, he acknowledged that their young strikers need time to mature and find consistency.
“When you want to be a successful side in the Premier League and Europe, you’re going to need a certain number of goals,” Van Nistelrooy explained. “That’s just a fact of football—every top team has players who can score reliably.” He suggested that while United’s young attackers have potential, they’re still developing and might not be ready yet to carry the scoring burden.
Despite the belief in their potential, Van Nistelrooy recognizes that United’s young forwards aren’t there yet. However, he’s hopeful that with time and proper guidance, they’ll reach the level United needs to compete at the top.
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This Sunday, Van Nistelrooy will lead United in his final match as interim manager, as they take on Leicester City at Old Trafford. He’s keeping a close eye on Amad Diallo, who scored twice in their recent Europa League victory over PAOK but is now dealing with a foot injury. “We’re assessing Amad and working to get him ready for Sunday,” Van Nistelrooy said. “Hopefully, he’ll make it.”
There’s also good news on the injury front, as key players are beginning to return to the squad. Luke Shaw resumed first-team training on Friday, after being out for nine months. Young talents Kobbie Mainoo and Leny Yoro are also close to making their returns.
“Kobbie is making the right steps in his recovery, though he’s not quite back with the team yet,” Van Nistelrooy added. He also highlighted the importance of Christian Eriksen, who played 30 minutes in the PAOK match, and Mason Mount, who recently returned to the pitch, calling their presence a “big benefit.”
With Shaw, Mainoo, and Yoro soon to be back, along with Eriksen and Mount making strides, Van Nistelrooy is hopeful that United’s squad depth will strengthen. He’s excited about the impact these returning players could have as the team works to find its footing in the league.