From Old Trafford to the King Power: Leicester City Appoint Van Nistelrooy as Manager
After impressive victories against Leicester as interim coach at United, Van Nistelrooy seeks success at his new club
- Ruud van Nistelrooy takes over as Leicester City manager on a contract until June 2027
- Van Nistelrooy impressed during his interim role at Manchester United
- The Dutch manager faces the task of revitalizing Leicester
Leicester City has officially named Ruud van Nistelrooy as their new manager following his successful temporary tenure at Manchester United.
The 48-year-old Dutchman, who signed a contract until June 2027, will now take charge of a Leicester side struggling in the lower half of the Premier League table after last season’s promotion.
Van Nistelrooy, a former star striker for Manchester United and Real Madrid, joined United’s coaching staff in July as an assistant to Erik ten Hag.
After Ten Hag’s dismissal, Van Nistelrooy stepped up as interim manager, securing three wins and one draw from four matches, including two impressive victories over Leicester — a 5-2 triumph in the League Cup and a 3-0 win in the Premier League.
“I’m proud and excited. Everyone I speak to about Leicester is enthusiastic,” said Van Nistelrooy upon his appointment.
This marks his second full-time managerial role after a stint at PSV Eindhoven, where he won the Dutch Cup before resigning in 2023. Leicester’s chairman, Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, praised Van Nistelrooy’s experience and winning mentality, emphasizing the club’s excitement for the future.
The club parted ways with Steve Cooper last weekend after a string of poor results, and Van Nistelrooy will not take charge for Leicester’s next match against Brentford, although he will be present at the game.
The Foxes’ interim coach, Ben Dawson, stated that the timing of Cooper’s dismissal was surprising, especially following an off-field controversy involving players at a Christmas party.
Despite the recent turmoil, Dawson confirmed that the players had returned to professionalism, and the club had swiftly addressed the situation.
