I joined Manchester United solely because of Ruud van Nistelrooy, who convinced the manager to sign me by presenting three compelling reasons. His influence and belief in my abilities made it clear that joining the club was the right move for my career.

Legendary Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar recently shared that his transfer to Old Trafford was actually suggested by his fellow Dutchman and teammate, Ruud van Nistelrooy. Prior to joining United, Van der Sar had an illustrious career, having played for European giants Ajax and Juventus before moving to Fulham, where many assumed he was nearing the end of his playing days. However, in 2005, Van Nistelrooy—then playing for United—recommended him to manager Sir Alex Ferguson, as the club sought a dependable successor to Peter Schmeichel, a position that had remained unsettled since the 1999 Treble-winning season.

According to Van der Sar, it was Van Nistelrooy’s influence that ultimately persuaded Ferguson to sign him, despite some initial hesitation due to the goalkeeper’s age, as he was nearly 35. Van der Sar recounted that Van Nistelrooy pointed out his ongoing Premier League experience, his role in the Netherlands’ national team, and his potential to contribute a few more quality years. This endorsement eventually led Ferguson to make the move.

Van der Sar then went on to solidify his status as one of United’s greatest keepers, becoming the team’s first-choice goalkeeper for six years until his retirement in 2011 at 40. His time at Old Trafford was marked by numerous achievements, including four Premier League titles, two League Cups, and the 2008 Champions League triumph. United also reached two additional Champions League finals during his tenure, cementing his legacy as one of the club’s best goalkeepers, thanks in part to Van Nistelrooy’s pivotal recommendation.