Former Real Madrid and Malaga striker Ruud van Nistelrooy believes Manuel Pellegrini is the ideal man to build Manchester City's dream for the future.
The Holland international worked with the Chilean at both Spanish clubs and has nothing but praise for 59-year-old's methods. Pellegrini, who signed off from Malaga with a 4-1 defeat at Barcelona on Saturday, hinted he would turn his attentions to his expected appointed at City on Monday having been linked with the vacancy since Roberto Mancini's departure.
And while there are many in England who have questioned his suitability to take over at the Etihad Stadium, Van Nistelrooy has no doubts.
"I can only tell from my own experience; half a season at (Madrid I was with him and the last season of my career at Malaga," he said.
"My experience was very good on a professional and personal level and I rate him very highly.
"I think he proved with Villarreal most of all - and Malaga - he could build a team and get things moving and he can create a structural culture at the club where things get better.
"In that sense, and me saying this as an ex-United player, he will build something at City.
"I don't know what his plans are, I only know the way he works and as a person and he is up there with the best."
Van Nistelrooy, speaking after a playing for both sides in a Manchester United v Real Madrid legends match at Old Trafford in aid of the Manchester United Foundation, which was won 2-1 by the visitors, added: "He led Villarreal to a (Champions League) semi-final and nearly a semi-final with Malaga.
"I think that is a fantastic achievement building those teams right through to that point. It is exactly what City are looking for."
Source: PA
