During his playing career, Van Nistelrooy spent five fruitful years with United, where he became one of the league’s most formidable forwards the moment he arrived.

The Dutchman scored 150 goals in all competitions and won every domestic trophy that was available to him in Manchester before moving to Real Madrid in 2006 amid escalating hostilities with Sir Alex.

Vаn Nistelrооy wоuld lаter аpоlоgise tо his fоrmer mаnаger аfter hаnging up his bооts аnd stаrt his оwn cоаching cаreer.

The 48-year-old was confirmed by United last month to be rejoining the team at Old Trafford as one of his fellow countryman Erik ten Hag’s backroom staff members.

Ruud van Nistelrooy has explained how his playing experiences influenced his approach to coaching.

The Dutchman recently returned to Old Trafford in a coaching role nearly two decades after first departing the club

Van Nistelrooy spent five years with United, scoring 150 goals in all competitions.

When considering how his playing career experiences have influenced his viewpoint as a coach, the former PSV manager identified a certain trait shared by Sir Bobby Robson, who he played for in his early career, and Ferguson.

“The relationships Sir Bobby Robson and Sir Alex Ferguson had with the individual were the most valuable lessons I learnt from working with them.” The Guardian was informed by Van Nistelrooy.

It’s a person, not a football player. People give their best when you establish that connection, and you can then assist them in advancing their careers. I never let that thought go out of my mind.

You have to put your arm around them and be firm with them at different moments. That combination is crucial, but being straightforward and honest at all times should come first.

“You have to share what you know about the game and what’s required at the highest level.”

Despite maintaining an often fractious relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson, Van Nistelrooy hailed the Scotsman’s man management skills

‘As a coach, you just try to help players reach their goals. And it is something that makes you feel really proud when you see young players develop.’

Much like United, rivals Liverpool have also undergone a period of transition this summer after Jurgen Klopp stepped down after nine glittering years in the Anfield dugout.

Arne Slot has been entrusted with the unenviable task of continuing Klopp’s heroics on Merseyside this season but Van Nistelrooy insisted his fellow Dutchman can replicate his Eredivisie successes in the Premier League.

‘In the Eredivisie, I loved going up against Slot.’ Van Nistelrooy continued. ‘His teams have a very recognisable style and he is very clear in his ideas.

‘He built the Feyenoord squad on those ideas, and he got in the players who could deliver on them. It’s building up from the goalkeeper from the back, combination play and finding the free man everywhere, so you need to make sure your press is right.

Along with supporting Arne Slot, the new manager of Liverpool, to maintain his success in the Premier League, Van Nistelrooy

It’s tremendous and strong pressure in your own side, so you also need to take care of your buildup. Slot forces you to properly prepare for each game, but I like the challenge.

“He has shown himself and his concept to be successful in Holland, and I have no doubt he can do even better overseas.”