‘Very good coach’ – Rafael van der Vaart tips former Manchester United striker for Ajax job

Manchester United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy has been tipped to become the next Ajax manager.

The former Netherlands striker led a PSV Eindhoven side to a runners-up finish in 2022/23, but he could now be about to take over at the Eredivisie’s biggest club Ajax.

Van Nistelrooy left PSV after winning the Johan Cruyff Shield and the Dutch Cup, but it is believed that a breakdown in relations led to that decision – rather than unhappiness at results on the pitch.

Former Tottenham midfielder Rafael van der Vaart is tipped Van Nistelrooy to follow in Erik ten Hag’s footsteps by becoming Ajax manager.

“I have spoken to people,” Van der Vaar told Studio Voetbal. “And it seems that Van Nistelrooy is really a very good coach.

“Well, let’s have Van Nistelrooy then. I want a big name to come to Ajax.”

Ajax are currently fifth in the Eredivisie table – six points adrift of AZ Alkmaar in fourth.

Van Nistelrooy would have a huge job on his hands to turn things around at Ajax, but there’s nothing good recruitment can’t help sort.

We could see Van Nistelrooy linked with the United job one day. That would be quite something.

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