Leicester City have appointed Ruud van Nistelrooy as their new manager on Friday, just a few weeks after he left Manchester United. The Dutchman parted ways with United earlier this month after a brief period as interim manager, having also served as Erik ten Hag’s assistant.
Leicester dismissed Steve Cooper on Sunday after only 12 Premier League matches in charge, with the team sitting 16th in the standings and a mere one point above the relegation zone.
“I’m proud and thrilled. Everyone I talk to about Leicester City Football Club is full of enthusiasm,” Van Nistelrooy stated in an announcement from the club.
“The club’s recent history is remarkable. I’m eager to get started, meet everyone, and dedicate myself fully to the football club.” He said.
Leicester famously won the Premier League in the 2015/16 season and secured their first FA Cup five years later. However, they were relegated from the Premier League two years ago before bouncing back at the first opportunity under current Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca.
Of Van Nistelrooy’s three wins in four matches as United’s caretaker boss, two came against Leicester in both the League Cup and Premier League.
At 48, van Nistelrooy has prior managerial experience from a year with PSV Eindhoven during the 2022/23 season.
He will officially start his role on Sunday, while a caretaker team led by Ben Dawson will oversee Saturday’s match against Brentford, but Van Nistelrooy plans to attend the game.
A prolific scorer, Van Nistelrooy had an illustrious playing career, especially notable at PSV, Manchester United, and Real Madrid.
Leicester chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha stated, “Ruud’s expertise, insight, and winning attitude will certainly add significant value to us, and we are excited to support him in achieving success for our fans and the club.”
