Leicester City have officially announced the appointment of former Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy as their new manager on a contract running until June 2027.
Van Nistelrooy briefly served as interim manager at Manchester United following Erik ten Hag’s departure, securing three wins and a draw in four matches. However, he left the club after it was confirmed he would not have a role under Ruben Amorim’s new regime at Old Trafford.
The Foxes, who recently parted ways with Steve Cooper after a poor start to the season, quickly identified the 48-year-old Dutchman as their top choice. Leicester confirmed that Van Nistelrooy will observe Saturday’s Premier League match against Brentford before officially taking charge.
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Expressing his enthusiasm for the role, Van Nistelrooy said via Leicester’s website:
“I’m proud, I’m excited. Everyone I’ve spoken to about Leicester City Football Club has been incredibly positive. The stories about the quality of the people, the supporters, and the recent history of the club are impressive. I’m eager to get started, meet everyone, and give my all for the club.”
Leicester returned to the Premier League this season as Championship winners under Enzo Maresca, who left to join Chelsea. However, their top-flight campaign has faltered, with just two wins and a four-game winless streak ultimately leading to Cooper’s dismissal.
Van Nistelrooy’s managerial experience includes a successful stint at PSV Eindhoven, where he led the team to victories in the Johan Cruyff Shield and KNVB Cup. Ironically, two of his four matches as United’s interim boss were against Leicester, with dominant wins in both the Premier League and Carabao Cup.
Leicester will host Van Nistelrooy’s former club, Manchester United, at the King Power Stadium in mid-March.