Van Nistelrooy officially starts in Manchester United game

Manchester United’s academy are back in competitive action as they look to make another strong impression.

The Reds enter the annual Otten Cup in Eindhoven after another encouraging season last season under Darren Fletcher.

United came close to silverware last season but ultimately finished empty-handed despite reaching two finals.

The Under-18s finished second in the U18 Premier League North on 56 points, just four behind Manchester City.

They were then beaten 2-1 by City in the FA Youth Cup final before losing the U18 Premier League Cup final to Crystal Palace on penalties following a 1-1 draw.

Van Nistelrooy starts for PSV against Manchester United

One familiar footballing name is currently standing in United’s way, with Liam van Nistelrooy starting for PSV Eindhoven against the Red Devils at the Otten Cup, as reported by Red Youth United on X.

The 19-year-old is the son of United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy, adding an interesting subplot to the meeting between the two academies.

Liam van Nistelrooy has been part of PSV’s setup since joining their Under-10s in 2017 and went on to sign his first professional contract with the Dutch club in April 2025, committing himself to PSV until the middle of 2028.

His father needs little introduction to United supporters.

Ruud enjoyed a prolific playing career at Old Trafford before later returning to the club as part of Erik ten Hag’s coaching staff, eventually taking charge as interim head coach in 2024.

Ruud also managed PSV during the 2022/23 season after previously working within their youth and reserve structures.

He has subsequently been involved with the Netherlands coaching setup on three occasions, first in 2014 under Guus Hiddink, again in 2019 under Ronald Koeman, and most recently from February 2026 as part of Koeman’s staff for the 2026 World Cup.

The Otten Cup provides another test for Fletcher’s young side, with United drawn in Group A alongside hosts PSV, Brazilian outfit Palmeiras and Adelaide United.

The opposite group features defending champions Inter Milan, Benfica, Chelsea, Club Brugge and Monaco.

The competition begins today in Eindhoven, with the final scheduled for Sunday, August 16, and United still searching for their first Otten Cup triumph despite previous appearances in the tournament.

For United supporters, however, the current PSV clash carries an added layer of intrigue with Ruud’s son lining up against the club his father once represented and coached.