Jaap Stam, a controversial figure yet one of the best defenders of his generation, admits he'd 'love' to coach Scottish Premiership giants Celtic or Rangers.
Considered one of the best center-backs of all time, the Dutch giant passed on the opportunity to ply his trade in Scotland during his illustrious career.
Young fans using digital tools like a VPN or a secure browser, to scour the web safely should check Stam's highlights to get a better understanding of the type of player and person he was back in the day.
Fierce on and off the field, Stam inspired fear with his uncompromising style of play, commanding presence and fiery personality, traits that made him a fan favourite and a nightmare for opposing strikers.
Imagine a 6ft3 colossus charging at you with a determination of steel, each step exuding raw power and unyielding focus.
That's how strikers used to feel in the early 21st century when Stam was wearing the shirts of Manchester United, Lazio and AC Milan after leaving his homeland in 1998.
What could have been?
Stam had an opportunity to join Rangers early in his career.
However, he refused a move to Ibrox to pledge his loyalty to PSV Eindhoven, believing it would better suit his development at a tender age.
It could've been a dream defensive partnership with one of Rangers greats, Richard Gough, a nightmare for every opposition.
Yet, the Dutchman chose to stay at the Philips Stadion.
A few years later, Celtic came knocking at his door. Unfortunately, the Hoops' approach arrived roughly the same time Sir Alex Ferguson called Stam to move to Old Trafford.
"When I was working with [Dick] Advocaat at PSV he tried to bring me to Rangers, but unfortunately for him, Manchester United came in for me the same summer," Stam told BoyleSports via Metro.
Stam joined the Red Devils in a deal worth £10.6m in 1998 and went on to win three consecutive Premier League titles before swapping England for Serie A at the beginning of the new millennium.
Strange choice
After several miserable managerial spells at Feyenoord and FC Cincinnati, Stam took charge of DOS Kampen, a side competing in the 6th tier of Dutch football, in February 2024.
He helped the club secure promotion to the 6th tier in his first season in charge after penning a season-long contract.
Stam's return to his hometown amateur club marked a humbling chapter in his career, showcasing his willingness to rebuild his managerial reputation from the ground up.
But he's seemingly keen to land a more high-profile job, perhaps in Scotland.
"My assistant at Reading, Andries Ulderink, is now working for Rangers, he’s a good guy," Stam admitted as per Mirror’s report. "There have been a lot of Dutch managers and players over there, including Advocaat."
Declaration of love
Stam declared his admiration for Scottish football, opening the door for a potential switch in the future.
"I’ve always followed Scottish football and when I played for Willem II I had the chance to join Celtic," he added. "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."
Potential scenarios
A move to Celtic is unrealistic at this point.
Brendan Rodgers is on the verge of leading the Hoops to their fourth consecutive league title after building a healthy 13-point lead on Old Firm rivals Rangers.
As for the Gers, Philippe Clement's future is up in the air.
Whether Stam would be a viable option for the Ibrox outfit remains questionable.
However, it'd be fascinating to see such a charismatic character at one of the most storied and passionate clubs in Scottish football.