Van Nistelrooy: Debut Impian di Manchester United
Ruud van Nistelrooy, the Dutch striker who arrived at Manchester United in the summer of 2001, immediately captivated the hearts of the Old Trafford faithful with a dream debut against Fulham.
On August 19, 2001, the anticipation was palpable. Van Nistelrooy, signed from PSV Eindhoven for a then-record fee of £19 million, was set to make his debut for the Red Devils.
The stage was set for a memorable performance, and the Dutchman didn't disappoint. He scored twice in the first half, showcasing his clinical finishing ability and instinctive goalscoring instincts that made him a legend at the Theatre of Dreams.
The first goal arrived in the 12th minute. A swift counter-attack saw David Beckham's cross finding its way to Van Nistelrooy, who controlled it with his left foot and fired a powerful shot past the Fulham goalkeeper. The crowd erupted, welcoming their new hero with thunderous applause.
Just 12 minutes later, the Dutchman doubled his tally. A precise pass from Ryan Giggs set him free, and with a trademark calm finish, he slotted the ball past the goalkeeper.
The goals were not just a testament to his individual brilliance but also a reflection of the seamless integration he had achieved within the Manchester United squad. He combined effortlessly with Beckham, Giggs, and the rest of the team, proving his ability to adapt to the Premier League's demanding pace.
The match ended 3-1, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer adding a third goal for United. Van Nistelrooy's debut was a resounding success, a perfect introduction for the Dutch striker who was about to embark on a legendary journey with Manchester United.
His debut performance epitomized what was to come. He became a prolific goalscorer at Old Trafford, smashing countless records and etching his name into the annals of Manchester United history. His goalscoring prowess and fearless determination were instrumental in the team's dominance in the early 2000s.
Van Nistelrooy's debut against Fulham was more than just a match. It was a declaration of intent, a promise of future success. It was the beginning of a special journey that would solidify his legacy as one of the most renowned strikers in Premier League history.