Van Nistelrooy Returns To Manchester United As Assistant Manager

Manchester United have announced that former player Ruud van Nistelrooy has joined Erik ten Hag’s coaching staff.

The legendary Dutch legend, who played for Manchester United from 2001 to 2006, will be the club’s new assistant manager until June 2026, alongside Rene Hake.

“I am delighted that Rene and Ruud have agreed to join our project, adding a wealth of experience, knowledge and new energy to the staff,” Ten Hag told the club’s official website.

“Now is a good time to refresh the coaching team as we look to build on the achievements of the past two years and push to the next level.”

New sporting director Dan Ashworth said: “Together with Erik, we are working to strengthen all areas of our men’s first-team operations and refreshing the coaching staff is an important part of that.

“It’s a particular pleasure to welcome Ruud back to the club where he enjoyed so much success as a player and I know that he and Rene will help reinforce the winning mentality and high standards we are aiming for.”

After making 219 appearances for United between 2000 and 2006, Van Nistelrooy now makes his way back to Old Trafford.

Before rising through the ranks of PSV Eindhoven’s academy, Van Nistelrooy began his coaching career as an assistant for the Dutch national team, retiring in 2012.

He later took over as head coach of PSV for the 2022–2023 season, leading the team to victory in both the Johan Cruyff Shield and the KNVB Cup, before departing that May of 2023.

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