Manchester United legend Edwin van der Sar has revealed that it was Ruud van Nistelrooy’s recommendation that helped secure his move to Old Trafford in 2005.
After successful spells with Ajax, Juventus, and Fulham, the Dutch goalkeeper was nearing the twilight of his career when Sir Alex Ferguson was searching for a new number one following the departure of Peter Schmeichel. Despite Van der Sar’s impressive resume, Ferguson had initial reservations about signing the 34-year-old due to his age.
However, it was Van Nistelrooy, a former Netherlands teammate of Van der Sar, who played a pivotal role in swaying Ferguson’s decision. Speaking on Rio Ferdinand’s podcast, Van der Sar explained how the striker’s endorsement led to his transfer to United.
“I think that was the reason why Ferguson signed me in the end,” Van der Sar admitted. “Ruud had a conversation with Ferguson at the end of the [previous] season about the next steps for United. He said, ‘We’re looking for a midfielder and a goalkeeper, so why don’t you take Van der Sar?'”
Van der Sar recalled how Van Nistelrooy defended his credentials despite concerns about his age. “‘Okay, but he’s old,’ Ferguson said, and Ruud responded, ‘Okay, but he still plays in the Premier League, he plays for the national team… [he] probably has another two good years in him.’ And I think that’s how the ball started rolling,” Van der Sar said.
The move proved to be a masterstroke. Van der Sar became a key figure at United, enjoying a highly successful six-season spell. His time at Old Trafford was decorated with numerous honors, including four Premier League titles, a UEFA Champions League trophy in 2008, and two League Cups. He also helped the club reach two other Champions League finals during his tenure.
Van der Sar’s contribution at United solidified his status as one of the club’s greatest-ever goalkeepers, often mentioned alongside the legendary Peter Schmeichel in discussions about United’s best shot-stoppers. Thanks to Van Nistelrooy’s timely recommendation, Van der Sar’s career reached new heights, further cementing the striker’s sharp eye for talent.
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