Ruud van Nistelrooy and Martin Keown Settle Their Differences in a Heartwarming Exchange

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Martin Keown met Ruud van Nistelrooy prior to Leicester’s match against Arsenal. The ex-England defender apologized for his antics in the ‘Battle of Old Trafford’.

Former Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy and Arsenal defender Martin Keown have finally reconciled in a heartfelt exchange at the King Power Stadium on February 15, 2025.

The two football legends were famously involved in one of the most heated moments in Premier League history back in 2003. During a tense match between United and Arsenal, Van Nistelrooy missed a crucial penalty, and Keown celebrated right in his face, sparking a massive brawl between the two sides. This incident became a symbol of the intense rivalry between the clubs during the Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsène Wenger era.

gettyimages 2517150 612x612 1 — MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 21: Martin Keown of Arsenal shows his feelings at Ruud Van Nistelrooy of Man Utd after Van Nistelrooy missed his penalty during the FA Barclaycard Premiership match between Manchester United and Arsenal at Old Trafford on September 21, 2003 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Fast forward to 2025, and the two men found themselves face-to-face once again, this time in a TNT Sports TV studio before Leicester City’s clash with Arsenal. The atmosphere was filled with nostalgia and a sense of closure as Keown extended an olive branch to Van Nistelrooy.

“Apologies for all the shenanigans that went on back in the day,” Keown said, shaking Van Nistelrooy’s hand. Van Nistelrooy responded with a smile, “What happens on the pitch, stays on the pitch.”

The exchange continued with both men reminiscing about the good old days and the intense rivalry that defined their careers. Keown added, “I’m glad you’re standing there and not next to me because you loved to stamp on me,” to which Van Nistelrooy replied, “I would like to block you out as well – and then fall over.”

The heartfelt moment was a testament to the respect and admiration they have for each other, despite the fierce competition they once shared. It was a reminder that even the most intense rivalries can evolve into mutual respect and friendship over time.