Jaap Stam has told Celtic and Rangers he would love to manage them one day – despite turning down the Old Firm as a player.
The Dutch legend was almost lured to Ibrox by Dick Advocaat in 1998 before Sir Alex Ferguson swooped to prize him to Manchester United. That came just a couple of years after the monstrous centre-back knocked back an offer from Parkhead in favour of staying in the Eredivisie. But Stam doesn’t look back with regret after cementing legendary status at Old Trafford as part of United’s historic Treble-winning team.
Regarded as one of the best defenders of all-time, Stam’s career in management hasn’t quite worked out after stints with Reading, PEC Zwolle, Feyenoord and FC Cincinnati. However, the 52-year-old is determined to become a success in the dugout and has set his sights on managing in Scotland with one of Glasgow’s big two.
“My assistant at Reading, Andries Ulderink, is now working for Rangers, he’s a good guy,” Stam told BoyleSports, who offer the latest Champions League betting. “There have been a lot of Dutch managers and players over there, including Dick Advocaat. When I was working with Advocaat at PSV he tried to bring me to Rangers, but unfortunately for him Manchester United came in for me the same summer.
“I’ve always followed Scottish football and when I played for Willem II I had the chance to join Celtic. I had an opportunity but I wanted to stay in Holland and keep learning. But both Celtic and Rangers are great clubs and everyone recognises their grounds, everyone is always thinking about football over there.
“One day I’d love to manage in Scotland, maybe for Rangers or Celtic or for another club. It would be amazing for me because the fans are so passionate about the game and I love that.”