Van Nistelrooy signs off in style as Man United beat Leicester 3-0

Ruud van Nistelrooy ended his stint as Manchester United’s interim manager with a commanding 3-0 victory over Leicester City at Old Trafford on Sunday, as Bruno Fernandes marked his 250th club appearance in style.

Fernandes opened the scoring with a fine strike from outside the box, celebrating his milestone appearance. Shortly before halftime, he doubled United’s lead with an assist, as his shot deflected off Leicester’s Victor Kristiansen for an own goal. Fernandes later set up Alejandro Garnacho, who netted a superb third goal to seal United’s third win in four matches since Erik ten Hag’s departure.

The victory provided a strong foundation for incoming head coach Ruben Amorim, who is set to arrive in England on Monday. However, Amorim’s official start is pending a visa approval, and the details of his backroom staff, including whether Van Nistelrooy will remain part of the team, are yet to be confirmed.

Old Trafford fans showed their appreciation for Van Nistelrooy, serenading him at the final whistle. Despite United’s lingering position in the lower half of the table, the Dutchman can take pride in securing three wins and a draw from his four games in charge.

Leicester, however, will feel frustrated with the outcome. United’s first shot on target came from Fernandes’ opener, after which the visitors piled on pressure but failed to capitalize, notably when Wilfred Ndidi’s one-on-one chance was thwarted by United keeper Andre Onana. Leicester’s heaviest league defeat of the season unfolded as they struggled to regain momentum.

Before kickoff, United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe presented Fernandes with a framed jersey to commemorate his 250th appearance. Fernandes, who had been struggling with form before Ten Hag’s dismissal, dedicated the victory to his former manager, having previously apologized for his underwhelming performances under Ten Hag.

As Amorim prepares for his first game in charge against Ipswich on November 24, he will inherit a United squad in its best form of the season, thanks in large part to Van Nistelrooy’s efforts.