Ruud van Nistelrooy and Martin Keown reunited on ahead of Arsenal’s match against Leicester City, revisiting their intense rivalry from two decades ago.
The former Manchester United and Arsenal players shared memories of their fierce battles for Premier League supremacy.
Keown and Van Nistelrooy were central figures in one of the league’s most heated rivalries, with Keown famously celebrating in the Dutchman’s face after a missed penalty in 2003.
Now Leicester's manager, Van Nistelrooy was once again facing Arsenal, though in a different role.
Keown, known for his aggressive defending, acknowledged his past actions and apologized to Van Nistelrooy.
"Apologies for all the shenanigans back in the day," he said. The former striker took it in stride, responding, "What happens on the pitch stays on the pitch."
Reflecting on their battles, Keown admitted he had to apologize to many strikers after retiring, adding, "Maybe a little extra spice for him because he was a clever player."
He recalled Van Nistelrooy’s movement and tactical awareness, describing him as "very clever" in exploiting defensive gaps.
Speaking with Joe Cole, Keown discussed how footballers adopt a different mentality on the pitch.
"You don't always like the person you become, but you have to be competitive," he said.
Cole echoed the sentiment, sharing how he did not speak to Rio Ferdinand for years due to their rivalry.
The discussion highlighted the competitive nature of football, where intense battles often give way to mutual respect once careers end.
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