Ruud van Nistelrooy has officially taken over as Leicester City’s new manager following the dismissal of Steve Cooper. The Dutchman inherits over a team languishing in 16th place, just one point above the relegation zone, but one that has enough talent to beat the drop. The Foxes have produced the goods against the big teams already this term, and those making a bet on Premier League standings would be foolish to suggest they will go down without a fight.
Leicester will hope Van Nistelrooy can replicate the success he enjoyed during his brief stint as Manchester United’s interim boss. While he hasn’t been in a permanent role for long, his new side has already experienced how good the Dutchman’s coaching can be, with two of his wins in the Old Trafford dugout coming against his new employers.
After joining United as Erik ten Hag’s assistant in July, Van Nistelrooy stepped into the interim manager role at the end of October, following his compatriot’s sacking and the worst start to a Premier League season in the club’s history.
He made an immediate impact, overseeing three wins and a draw in his four matches. His tenure included two emphatic victories over his current club, Leicester—a 5-2 triumph in the Carabao Cup and a commanding 3-0 league win.
A 1-1 draw against Chelsea at Old Trafford, while not flawless, showcased United’s resilience against an in-form side under Enzo Maresca. While cracks in the team remained, Van Nistelrooy’s leadership helped stabilise a turbulent period for the Red Devils before Ruben Amorim’s arrival.
Van Nistelrooy enjoyed a legendary playing career and was already adored by the Old Trafford faithful. The striker was one of the most feared goal scorers of his era, gracing the Premier League with the Red Devils between 2001 and 2006.
His clinical finishing, intelligent movement, and relentless goal-scoring ability saw him spearhead Sir Alex Ferguson’s attack for five trophy-laden years.
Despite the club’s struggles before his appointment, Van Nistelrooy enjoyed an unbeaten spell as interim manager. His four-game tenure saw United rediscover some attacking fluency and defensive solidity, helping the team regain confidence. Leicester fans experienced his tactical prowess first-hand, with United dismantling their side twice in the space of a month.
While his time at the helm was brief, Van Nistelrooy’s efforts earned him respect from both fans and players. His unbeaten record provided a much-needed boost for United before Amorim’s arrival – the Dutchman penning an emotional farewell to the club that paved the way for a permanent role in the East Midlands.
“To everyone at Manchester United Football Club, in particular the backroom staff, the players and the fans,” Van Nistelrooy wrote on social media.
“I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your incredible efforts and support. It has been a privilege and honour to represent the club as a player, coach and manager, and I will always cherish the memories we have shared together.
“Man Utd will always have a special place in my heart, and I hope there are many more glory days at Old Trafford very soon – not only because I want the club to do well, but because you all deserve it! All the best and take care, Ruud.”
Though Van Nistelrooy departed Manchester United following Amorim’s appointment, his contributions will not be forgotten. He stepped into a challenging situation and steadied the ship, guiding United through a difficult period with professionalism and composure. Leicester will be hoping the Dutchman can channel that same energy to guide them away from relegation danger.
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