Ruud van Nistelrooy admits he may leave Real Madrid in the New Year.

The former Manchester United striker has endured a torrid time with injury over the past twelve months, and he faces a huge struggle for regular first team football at the Bernabeu.

With the World Cup in South Africa representing the 33-year-old with his last chance of international glory, the Holland ace admits he may leave Real when the transfer window reopens.

"I want to play,” said van Nistelrooy. "I have not spoken with (coach Manuel) Pellegrini, but when he comes back (from Chile) we'll talk, because I want to try to understand.

“If I do not play enough, I could leave in January. My intention is to play in the World Cup with Holland. But if you do not play, it is impossible to be selected.”

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