Van Nistelrooy set to return to Old Trafford after FA Cup fourth round draw

Manchester United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy.

Van Nistelrooy set to return to Old Trafford after FA Cup fourth round draw

Ayoola Kelechi 23:34 - 12.01.2025

The ex-Manchester United striker and manager will get another chance to impress his former bosses

The fourth-round draw of the FA Cup has set the stage for some thrilling matchups, including an emotional return to Old Trafford for Ruud van Nistelrooy.

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Manchester United, the reigning champions, will face Leicester City, now led by their former interim manager, in what promises to be a compelling tie.

Van Nistelrooy set for Old Trafford return

The clash between Manchester United and Leicester City will mark van Nistelrooy’s return to Old Trafford after his short spell as interim boss.

Ruud van Nistelrooy (L) with Erik ten Hag, sacked Manchester United boss. (Credit: Imago)

The Dutchman served as United’s caretaker manager for four games earlier this season, leading the team to three wins before Ruben Amorim was appointed as permanent head coach.

The legendary former Manchester United striker had expressed his desire to stay on Amorim’s coaching staff but instead moved on to Leicester City.

Ruud van Nistelrooy celebrates winning the FA Cup with Manchester United in 2004 (Credit: Imago)

The fourth-round tie offers him an immediate reunion with his former club and a chance to prove his managerial mettle against the defending champions.

Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United will aim to build on their dramatic penalty shootout victory over Arsenal in the third round and maintain their momentum in front of their home crowd.

Premier League showdowns and other key fixtures in FA Cup

Elsewhere, the fourth-round draw features three all-Premier League clashes that will bring more excitement to the competition.

Erik Ten Hag with the Emirates FA Cup Manchester United won last season.
Erik Ten Hag with the Emirates FA Cup Manchester United won last season. (Photo Credit: Imago)

Brighton & Hove Albion will face Chelsea, while Everton will take on Bournemouth, and Aston Villa host Tottenham Hotspur in what promises to be tightly contested matches.

Current Premier League leaders, Liverpool, have a favourable draw as they welcome Championship side Plymouth Argyle to Anfield.

Arne Slot, Liverpool manager || Imago

Meanwhile, last season’s runners-up, Manchester City, will play either League One side Leyton Orient or Championship outfit Derby County. League Two side Doncaster Rovers will face Crystal Palace, providing a classic David vs. Goliath scenario.

The fourth-round ties will take place from February 7 to 10, with fans eagerly anticipating another round of drama, upsets, and unforgettable moments in the world’s oldest football competition.