Ruud van Nistelrooy: Manchester United Legend Returns to Old Trafford as PAOK Boss

Former Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy is set to make a return to Old Trafford as the manager of PAOK FC in the UEFA Europa League.

Van Nistelrooy, who scored 150 goals in 219 appearances for United between 2001 and 2006, will lead his Greek side against the Red Devils in the first leg of their knockout round play-off tie on Thursday, February 16.

The 46-year-old has enjoyed a successful managerial career since hanging up his boots in 2011, winning the Dutch Cup with PSV Eindhoven in 2018 and leading them to the Champions League quarter-finals in 2019.

He took over at PAOK in the summer of 2022 and has guided them to the top of the Greek Super League, six points clear of second-placed AEK Athens, and the semi-finals of the Greek Cup.

Van Nistelrooy will be hoping to make a positive impression on his return to Old Trafford, where he is still fondly remembered by the United faithful.

The Dutchman formed a formidable partnership with Wayne Rooney during his time at United, and the pair helped the club win the Premier League title in 2003 and 2007.

Van Nistelrooy also played a key role in United's Champions League triumph in 2008, scoring in the semi-final victory over AC Milan.

He left United for Real Madrid in 2006, but returned to Old Trafford for a brief spell in 2008 before retiring in 2011.

Van Nistelrooy's return to Old Trafford is sure to be a special occasion, and he will be hoping to lead PAOK to a famous victory against his former club.