'The King' Returns: Can Van Nistelrooy Spark Manchester United's Revival?

Manchester United face Chelsea on Sunday with interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy at the helm while faltering Arsenal face a potentially tricky trip to Newcastle.

The current Manchester United side are a pale shadow of the team Ruud van Nistelrooy played for under the leadership of Alex Ferguson. Now, as the Dutch legend assumes the role of interim manager, Red Devils fans are hoping for a Van Nistelrooy-inspired resurgence. The question on everyone's lips is can he replicate the success of his illustrious playing career?

Van Nistelrooy's managerial experience is limited, but what he lacks in experience, he makes up for in charisma and adoration from the Old Trafford faithful. The Dutchman is remembered fondly by the Manchester United fans for his blistering goal-scoring form and unwavering dedication to the team. Now, as the team grapples with subpar performance, Van Nistelrooy's inspirational presence might be the spark that reignites Manchester United's passions.

The 47-year-old will have his work cut out for him, however, as his first game in charge sees Manchester United locking horns with an in-form Chelsea side on Sunday. Graham Potter's Chelsea are on a roll, registering four wins in their last five outings. Chelsea's defense has been watertight of late, with Kepa Arrizabalaga pulling off a string of crucial saves in their 1-0 win over Brentford. With Chelsea brimming with confidence and United lurching from one defeat to the next, a United victory seems far-fetched.

Elsewhere in the league, Arsenal's fallibility was once again laid bare as they managed a lackluster draw against Liverpool in the Carabao Cup, before suffering a humiliating defeat at the hands of Brighton in the Premier League. As Mikel Arteta's men struggle to regain their footing, they are staring down the barrel of what promises to be a tough encounter against Newcastle United at St James' Park.

The Magpies have not been embarrassed in their outings against top-half teams this season and will undoubtedly look to exploit Arsenal's defensive vulnerabilities. With Arsenal striving to rediscover their shooting boots and Newcastle aiming to extend their undefeated run at St James' Park, this fixture is poised to become an enthralling clash of objectives. Newcastle's unpredictability coupled with their commitment to pressing high up the pitch might push Arsenal back onto their heels, forcing them into committing the same mistakes that have hindered their performance.