A Five-Star Debut: Van Nistelrooy Lights Up Old Trafford
Remember that feeling when you finally get your hands on that awesome new game you've been dying to play? Imagine that, but on a football pitch, in front of 67,000 screaming fans. That's what it was like for Ruud van Nistelrooy when he made his Manchester United debut against Fulham.
On August 19, 2001, a new era for the Red Devils began. Van Nistelrooy, the hotshot striker signed from PSV Eindhoven, was ready to unleash his talents. The man was a goalscoring machine, and Old Trafford was buzzing with anticipation. The tension was thick, like a good Manchester pie, as everyone wanted to see what this Dutch maestro could do.
Well, let me tell you, he didn't disappoint. He scored three goals, that's right, THREE, in his first game! The first came after a slick move involving David Beckham. Ruud finished it off with a cool, composed strike that sent the Stretford End into raptures. The second, a classic poacher's goal, was all about being in the right place at the right time. His third was pure magic, a rocket of a shot that left the Fulham keeper with no chance.
Van Nistelrooy's hat-trick was the highlight of a dominant performance by United. The Red Devils were on fire, with David Beckham also bagging two goals. It was a performance that hinted at great things to come, a taste of the brilliance that would define Ruud's time at Old Trafford. The fans were on their feet, chanting his name and waving their red flags.
The game itself was a thrilling spectacle, an unforgettable introduction to the man who would go on to become a true Manchester United legend. Five goals, a hat-trick, a debut to remember. The King of Old Trafford had arrived.