Leicester City have named Ruud van Nistelrooy as their new manager.
The 48-year-old has signed a three-and-a-half-year contract with the Foxes, which could see him in charge until 2027.
Van Nistelrooy replaces Steve Cooper, who was sacked just five months after joining the Midlands club.
Leicester sit 16th in the Premier League, winning just twice so far in 2024-25.
They will hope the Dutchman’s arrival will give them a boost big enough to drag them away from the drop zone.
Van Nistelrooy spent a few weeks as interim head coach at Manchester United ahead of Ruben Amorim’s appointment.
He enjoyed an unbeaten run of four games at Old Trafford, including a win against Leicester in the Carabao Cup.
Welcome, Ruud van Nistelrooy 🦊 💙 pic.twitter.com/wHcwZc85eY
— Leicester City (@LCFC) November 29, 2024
Before that, he spent a season in charge of PSV, leading the Eredivisie side to a second-placed finish.
Speaking as boss for the first time, Van Nistelrooy said: “I’m proud, I’m excited.
“Everybody that I speak to about Leicester City Football Club is enthusiastic.
“They have great stories about the quality of the people working at the Club, the supporters and, of course, the recent history of the Club is impressive.
“I’m excited to start and to get to know everyone and give everything I can for the Football Club.”
Chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha added: “It is my pleasure to welcome Ruud to Leicester City.
“He joins a Club with a rich history, passionate supporters, and a talented squad, and we are all excited to see the impact he can have as we embark on this new chapter together.
“Ruud’s experience, knowledge, and winning mentality will undoubtedly bring great value to us, and we look forward to supporting him in achieving success for our fans and our Club.”
Van Nistelrooy will watch from the stands as Leicester face Brentford this weekend, before starting his new role as manager from Sunday.
