Ruud van Nistelrooy Makes Contact For Former United Coach

Ruud van Nistelrooy is set to be appointed as Leicester City’s new manager.

The 48-year-old Dutchman would replace Steve Cooper, who was sacked after just 157 days in charge following Saturday’s 2-1 Premier League defeat by Chelsea.

Van Nistelrooy’s appointment comes two weeks after he left his role as interim head coach at Manchester United, following Erik ten Hag’s dismissal.

He oversaw three wins and one draw during his stint in charge at United, but departed after being told he would not be given a role in new manager Ruben Amorim’s backroom staff.

Two of Van Nistelrooy’s victories were against Leicester – a 5-2 win in the Carabao Cup last 16 and a 3-0 triumph in the Premier League earlier this month.

The former Manchester United and Netherlands striker will join the Foxes with the club 16th in the Premier League after 12 games and just one point above the relegation zone.

Leicester’s next game is away at Brentford on Saturday in the Premier League and while it is unclear if Van Nistelrooy will be in the dugout, the proximity to the weekend means it is unlikely he will take charge of the team.

Leicester caretaker manager Ben Dawson, part of Cooper’s backroom staff, remains poised to lead the side.

Ruud van Nistelrooy could now bring ex-Manchester United ‘expert’ to Leicester City

Ruud van Nistelrooy could call on Hake to help him at the King Power Stadium.

The Times report that Van Nistelrooy may appoint Hake as his assistant having worked together at United.

Hake quit his post as Go Ahead Eagles boss over the summer in order to join Ten Hag’s coaching staff at Old Trafford.

If Van Nistelrooy does appoint Hake, then both men will be in line to face off against United later this season. United will travel to face Leicester on March 15, 2025, going up against Van Nistelrooy and Hake in the process.