Ruud van Nistelrooy: Man United's enduring European competitiveness

LONDON – After an impressive unbeaten start in his first two matches as interim manager, Ruud van Nistelrooy's immediate focus is on leading Manchester United to victory over PAOK in the upcoming Europa League match on Nov 7.

The Red Devils host their Greek opponents at Old Trafford, the first time the two teams meet in their history, with both sides still seeking a first win in this season’s competition.

For United the aim is straightforward, to win after having drawn four and lost two of their last six European games. They have never gone seven continental matches without a win.

It is not van Nistelrooy’s fault, but the Dutchman – who is set to relinquish the hot seat to Ruben Amorim on Nov 11 – will be under pressure to get a result regardless.

“Man United is always there to compete in Europe, and it’s no different tomorrow,” he said on Nov 6.

“For me it’s important, that’s the reason why I arrived at the club, to help the club and build to those years again where there were successful times in Europe. There was the Europa League win (with Jose Mourinho) in the last 10 years so I think there is big European successes. In that sense, Man United is always there to compete in Europe.

“In the meantime the most important thing is getting the work done on a daily basis and in the game tomorrow. I have to say that I feel the responsibility to do well over the next week and that is my job. I am focused on that.”

United are lying in 21st place in the 36-team Europa League standings after drawing their opening three fixtures.

They drew 1-1 at home against Dutch side Twente, battled in a 3-3 draw away in Portugal against Porto, followed by a 1-1 draw against Jose Mourinho’s Turkish side Fenerbahce two weeks ago.

Erik ten Hag has since been sacked and van Nistelrooy oversaw a 5-2 League Cup win over Leicester City and last weekend’s 1-1 English Premier League draw with Chelsea.

He will aim to get back to winning ways and there is cause for optimism, as United have won all six of their previous home encounters with Greek opposition with an aggregate score of 20-1.

Van Nistelrooy, however, will still have to cope without Christian Eriksen, Kobbie Mainoo, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, Antony and Leny Yoro.

Yoro has not made his competitive debut for the club but is close to full fitness.